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SIR WALTER SCOTT. 
Painting by 11. Raeburn. 






















STANDARD LITERATURE SERIES 


WAVEKLE Y 


OR 


’TIS SIXTY YEARS SINCE 


BY 

SIR WALTER SCOTT, Bakt. 


CONDENSED AND EDITED WITH NOTES AND INTRODUCTION 
FOR SCHOOL READING BY 

ARCHIBALD L. BOUTON, M.A. 

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF ENGLISH, NEW YORK UNIVERSITY 





UNIVERSITY PUBLISHING COMPANY 

NEW YORK . : • BOSTON • : • NEW ORLEANS 


FEBi 5 !902 

CWVRtQHT ENTRir 

■glass XXa No4 

•L L / S' 

COPY a 


\fl 

' 


MAP OF 

EJTGLAND AND SCOTLAND 

TO ACCOMPANY 
WAVERLEY 

SCALE or MILES 



2458 


Copyright, 1903, by 

UNIVERSITY PUBLISHING COMPANY 


CONTENTS, 


Introduction. • 

' 

PAGE 

Historical Sketch 


vii 

Life of Scott 


xiv 

Waverley 


XV 

CHAPTER 

I. 

Waverley-Honour — A Retrospect . 


1 

11. 

Education and Castle-Building 


4 

III. 

Choice of a Profession 


7 

IV. 

The Adieus of Waverley 


8 

V. 

A Horse-Quarter in Scotland — Tully-Veolan 


11 

VI. 

Rose Bradwardine and Her Father 


18 

VII. 

Acquaintance Progresses 


22 

VIII. 

A Letter — A Highlanders’ Foray . 


26 

IX. 

An Unexpected Ally Appears 


33 

X. 

The Hold of a Highland Robber . 


39 

XI. 

Waverley Proceeds on His Journey 


42 

XII. 

The Chief and His Mansion .... 


46 

XIII. 

A Highland Feast 


49 

XIV. 

The Chieftain’s Sister — A Lost Seal 


'51 

XV. 

A Stag Hunt and Its Consequences 


56 

XVI. 

News from England 


61 

XVII. 

A Declaration 


66 

XVIII. 

Upon the Same Subject 


70 

XIX. 

A Letter from Tully-Veolan .... 


74 

XX. 

Waverley’s Reception in the Lowlands after 



His Highland Tour 


78 

XXL 

Shows That the Loss of a Horse’s Shoe May 

Be 



a Serious Inconvenience .... 


82 

XXII. 

An Examination 


87 

XXIII. 

A Confidant 


' 92 

XXIV. 

Things Mend a Little — A Volunteer Sixty Years 



Since 


94 


VI 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER PAGE 

XXV. An Incident 97 

XXVI. Waverley is Still in Distress .... 99 

XXVII. A Blind Journey 103 

XXVIII. An Old and a New Acquaintance .... 110 

XXIX. The Mystery Begins to Be Cleared Up . . 115 

XXX. The Ball 118 

XXXI. The March 121 

XXXII. An Incident Gives .Rise to Unavailing Reflec- 
tions 123 

XXXIII. The Eve of Battle 127 

XXXIV. The Conflict 131 

XXXV. The English Prisoner 135 

XXXVI. Intrigues of Politics 141 

XXXVII. Intrigues of Society and Love .... 147 

XXXVIII. A Brave Man in Sorrow 153 

XXXIX. Exertion 156 

XL. The March 158 

XLI. Confusion in the Camp 161 

XLII. A Skirmish 167 

XLIII. A Chapter of Accidents 173 

XLIV. A Journey to London 176 

XLV. Desolation 182 

XLVI. Comparing of Notes — More Explanations , . 188 

XLVII. Now IS Cupid a Child of Conscience — He Makes 

Restitution — Shakspeare 196 

XLVII I. A Short Wooing 201 

XLIX. To-Morrow ? Oh, that’s Sudden ! — Spare Him ! 

Spare Him ! — Shakspeare 204 

L. The Execution 209 

LI. A Wedding 215 

LII. A Restored Estate 217 


INTRODUCTION. 


HISTORICAL SKETCH. 

Waverley^Ms a true example of the historical novel. 
In its pages the scenes and detail of Scottish life in the years 
1745-1746 are infused with the spirit of a living present. Real 
personages live and move before us, acting out the essential 
drama of their lives. The historical nucleus of Waverley 
is the last attempt of a direct descendant of Charles I. to gain 
the English crown. To supplement the narrative of the 
text by such an explanation as will make clear the place and 
significance in English history of this attempt on the part of 
the so-called Young Pretender/^ Charles Edward Stuart, 
to establish himself on the English throne, is the purpose of 
this sketch. 

Mary Queen of Scots was the ancestor of the English 
house of Stuart. Something of her power of attracting the 
love and sympathy of those who knew her she seems to have 
transmitted to her descendants ; and something, too, of th,e 
turbulence and fateful misfortune of her own life seems to have 
attended the house of Stuart throughout its stormy and 
unfortunate royal career. Amiable men the Stuart princes 
were, and full of the courtly culture of the cavalier. Intel- 
lectually brilliant, lovers of learning, they were nevertheless 
deficient in moral fibre. In private life they were dissolute, 
lacking in honesty and steadfast purpose. The courts of 
Charles I. and his son were full of scandal, and seethed with 
corruption and immorality as the court of no other English 
king ever did. 


Vlll 


INTRODUCTION. 


James VI., king of Scotland, the son of Queen Mary, be- 
came James I., king of England, at the death of Elizabeth in 
1603. In 1625 he was succeeded by his son Charles I. The 
story of his reign is that of a continuous and violent struggle 
between the exacting tyranny and selfishness of Charles, who 
was a firm believer in the absolute and unlimited power of 
kings, and the growing power of government by the people. 
The result of the struggle, the rise of Cromwell and his Pro- 
tectorate, the overthrow of the king, and his execution in 1649 
are well-known matters of history. 

But with the death of Charles I. peace was far from as- 
sured. Prince Charles, his son, a young man of about nine- 
teen, fled to France, but returned to Scotland in the following 
year, and, promising to become a good Presbyterian, was 
able to put himself at the head of a considerable Scottish 
army. Cromwell, resolved to crush insurrection in the plane 
of its birth, marched to Scotland, and defeated the army of 
Charles at Dunbar. At Worcester, in the north of England, 
just one year later, he utterly crushed the uprising, amd 
Charles, after many hair-breadth escapes, fled to France. 

But Cromwell’s Protectorate, deprived by the death, in 
1658, of its powerful head, was a weak, inadequate govern- 
ment. Cromwell’s son Eichard was not the man of iron 
that the situation demanded, and at length, the people of 
England, dreading the uncertainty and irresponsibility of gov- 
ernment by the generals of the army which already was split 
into factions, welcomed the return of Charles with shouts 
and acclamations. He was crowned Charles II. in 1660, and 
reigned until 1685, 

Charles II., though even weaker in moral stamina, was a 
man of more ability than his father, and he had a keener sense 
of how far it was safe to go in his exactions. Though his 
belief in his own inherent rights was hardly less extravagant 
than that of his father, he was more willing to compromise, 
and hence the relations between king and parliament never 


HISTORICAL SKETCH. 


IX 


became so strained. The agitation of religious questions be- 
came acute, however, and remained so for years. First came 
a powerful reaction against the austerity of the Purit ans, as ) 
the fo ^wers^ of Cromw ell were called. This reaction was 
both social and politic. Socially, it led to unheard-of de- 
bauchery in the life of the court and of the people. Polit- 
ically, it led to the reestablishment of the Church of England 
and the persecution of the Puritans, a large portion of whom 
were Presbyterians. All who refused to conform to every- 
thing said in the Prayer Book were called Dissenters, and 
were denied the privilege of holding religious meetings or 
political office. Persecutions arose which were most bitter, 
and were hardly modified by the weak plea of Charles for Acts 
of Toleration for the benefit of those outside the Church of 
England. There was much prejudice against Catholics at the 
time throughout England, and the fear of Catholic domina- 
tion led to much of the harsh sectarian legislation by parlia- 
ment against those outside the Church of England. Charleses 
sympathies were really on the side of the Catholics, though 
he was not nominally a Catholic ; and hence upon the religious 
issues of the day he and parliament were by no means in sym- 
pathy with each other. At length upon his death-bed he 
became a communicant of the Catholic Church. From this 
time on, the male representatives of the House of Stuart were 
Catholics. 

The immediate successor of Charles II. was James II., 
Charleses brother. The character of James II. was as arbi- 
trary as that of his predecessor was vacillating. An avowed 
Catholic, he was credited with the purpose to catholicize Eng- 
land. To this end he attempted, to establish an army with 
which to awe the people, and he interfered with the charters 
of the great universities of Oxford and Cambridge, seeking 
to impose Catholic officers upon them. He sought by every 
available means, not omitting bribery and intimidation, to 
overthrow the established Church. The leaders of the Church 


X 


INTRODUCTION. 


of England at length were driven to open protest by the as- 
sumption by the king of the so-called ‘^dispensing power/^ In 
1687 and 1688, respectively, James issued two “ Declarations of 
Indulgence,^^ in which he suspended all laws against Dissent- 
ers and Roman Catholics alike. These proclamations were 
made ostensibly to gain the support of the Dissenters against 
the Church of England, but their effect was at the same time 
to give unusual privileges to the Catholics. Aroused by tliese 
declarations, certain bishops of the Church of England pro- 
tested openly to the king. James, enraged, ordered them 
tried for seditious libel. Though tho bishops were acquitted, 
feeling against the king rose so high that, after the birth of 
a son to him in 1688, the Protestant leaders, unwilling to 
have another Catholic on tho throne, invited the Protestant 
Prince William of Orange to come and defend the liberties 
of England. In this invitation the best elements of both of 
the leading parties, Whigs and Tories, joined. 

William, whose wife was the Princess Mary, daughter of 
James II., accepted the invitation, and landed in England 
with 15,000 men. James escaped to France. j^Parliament 
declared the throne vacant, and William and Mary, being 
crowned jointly, held the throne until the death of Mary 
in 1694, after which William reigned alone until 1702. 
James made one last effort to regain his throne by the aid 
of Louis XIV. of France. Ireland was invaded in 1689-90. 
But after several engagements the invaders were at last to- 
tally defeated at the battle of the Boyne, in 1690. 

James II. died in 1701. He was the last male Stuart of the 
line of Charles I. to occupy the throne of England. Two 
further attempts made by his descendants remain to be 
noted. 

After the revolution of 1688, which established the Protes- 
tant succession to the English throne, and expelled James II. 
from the throne because of his menace to English libertv, 
his partisans, who still formed a considerable body in Eng- 


HISTORICAL SKETCH. 


XI 


land, and especially in Scotland, were called Jacobites — a 
name gotten from the Latin form of Jameses name, i.e., 
Jacobus. Their badge, often worn on their costume, was a 
white cockade. 

In 1715, following the death of Queen Anne, the succes- 
sion to the throne was for a time in doubt. At length the 
crown was offered to George I., Elector of Hanover, a German 
prince, whose sole title to the English throne lay in his de- 
scent from a sister of Charles I. Upon his accession, the 
Jacobites, instigated by the French, fomented an uprising in 
Scotland under the leadership of the Earl of Mar, in behalf 
of James Stuart, son of James 11. This man is known in 
history as the Chevalier St. George, or The Old Pretender.^'’ 
At the same time, with the uprising of the Earl of Mar, oc- 
curred a lesser insurrection of a few hundred Jacobites in the 
north of England. Though the two insurgent bodies suc- 
ceeded in joining forces, they had not enough cohesion to 
ensure themselves against severe losses from desertion. James 
Stuart himself at length came to Scotland, but lacked the 
personal power to make himself a leader of his adherents, 
and they gradually fell away, leaving him and the Earl of 
Mar, at length, to escape to France almost alone. The insur- 
rection thus ended with no determined struggle, and with 
the execution of about forty of the rebels for high treason. 

One last effort of the Stuart family to regain the English 
throne was made in 1745-6, under the leadership of Charles 
Edward Stuart, grandson of James 11. It is this episode 
which is portrayed in Waverley.'’^ Landing in the west of 
Scotland with but seven followers, Charles Edward sought, 
by the magic of his name, to rally the Highland clans about 
him, and gradually to arouse into open rebellion against 
George II., the reigning king, all the dissatisfied elements of 
the kingdom. He hoped to gain the active support of the 
diminishing, but still numerous, Jacobites, the Tories, who 
were the descendants of the noble families that had sup- 


INTKODUCTION. 


xii 

ported the Stuarts in the past, and the Catholics. In short, 
he hoped all would rally to his standard who disliked and 
distrusted the rule of England by kings who did not speak 
her language, or make England their home, and whose title 
to the throne was, by rule of descent, much less patent than 
that of the Stuarts. Opposed to the pretensions of the 
Stuarts was the ruling party, in England, the Whig, which 
was unbroken in its support of the Hanoverian Dynasty, 
though divided on many matters of foreign policy, and sub- 
jected to several consequent changes of ministry during the 
years just before and after the attempt of the Young Pre- 
tender.^^ These changes within the Whig ministry are alluded 
to in the earlier chapters of Waverley/' 

After landing in Scotland in August, 1745, Charles Edward 
at length rallied in his behalf the clans of the Scottish High- 
lands, and with a small army marched toward Edinburgh. 
He entered the city in triumph, and proclaimed himself 
Janies the Eighth, king of Scotland. On September 21st he 
attacked and cut to pieces two thousand English troops under 
Sir John Cope at Preston. Inspired by this victory the 
Scotch, hoping for a renewal of the independence of Scotland, 
flocked to the Pretender, until he was in command of an 
army of six thousand men, all Highlanders. With this army, 
confldent of an enthusiastic reception, the Pretender set 
forth to invade England and capture London. Never was 
expectation worse founded. Penetrating as far south as 
Derby, he met with no acclamations, and received the 
armed assistance of but one country squire. Farther advance 
was impossible, and, pursued by the Duke of Cumberland, 
Charles Edward retreated rapidly to Glasgow, where he re- 
ceived reinforcements which raised his force to nine thousand 
men. With this army he attacked the English under General 
Hawley at Falkirk, and routed them. But this was Charles’s 
last triumph. A large portion of his Highland adherents, 
flnding in his plans no support for their dream of the inde- 


HISTORICAL SKETCH. 


Xlll 


pendence of Scotland, succumbed to their predatory instincts, 
and, laden with the spoil of Falkirk, scattered to the moun- 
tains. With the remainder of his army, about six thousand 
men, Charles Edward retreated to Culloden Moor. Here, on 
April 16, 1746, his army was cut to pieces and butchered in 
the most merciless manner by the English under the Duke of 
Cumberland. The Pretender became a fugitive, and at length 
escaped to France disguised as a female servant. Fifty- 
three of his leading supporters were executed, and forty 
more were attainted by Act of Parliament. Thus wretchedly 
ended the last attempt of the Stuarts to regain the English 
throne. 

The chivalrous and picturesque personality of Charles 
Edward, the Chevalier, as he is sometimes called from his 
rank as a knight of the French court, receives a grapliic and 
sympathetic portrayal at the hands of Scott. Nor is there 
strong reason to suppose that the fair portrait is overdrawn. 
That he was worthy of his descent in appearance and be- 
haviour under the trying circumstances of the Jacobite upris- 
ing there is every reason to suppose. But, in the words of 
Scott himself: If Prince Charles had concluded his life 
soon after his miraculous escape (to France), his character 
in history must have stood very high. As it was, his station 
is amongst those, a brilliant portion of whose life forms a 
remarkable contrast to all which precedes, and all which fol- 
lows it."’^ After the disastrous failure in Scotland, and his 
flight to France, Charles Edward StuarPs career was one of 
unbridled debauchery, though he survived until 1788. Thus 
ends the chronicle of the Stuart family so far as it deals with 
their connection with the English throne. A brother of Charles 
Edward, Henry Stuart, became a cardinal, and lived until 
1807. With his death the male line of the House of Stuart 
became extinct, though there are descendants of a daughter 
of Charles I. still living, most conspicuous of whom is the 
King of Italy. 


XIV 


INTRODUCTION. 


LIFE OF SCOTT. 

Sir Walter Scott is one of the most considerable figures 
in all English literature. Besides being one of our foremost 
poets^ and perhaps our greatest writer of historical novels, he 
appeals to us as a robust, full-blooded Scotchman in sympathy 
with human life wherever he found it. He is, as a man, well 
worth study, and yet in the limits of this sketch we can note 
merely the main outlines of his career, and urge the student 
to read elsewhere the complete story of Scott’s life — if pos- 
sible in the ‘‘ Life of Scott,” by his son-in-law, John Gibson 
Lockhart, which is one of the very best biographies ever 
written. 

Born in Edinburgh in 1771, Walter Scott was descended 
from an old and honourable Scotch family. Attacked in 
infancy by a fever, he was left with a lameness from which 
he never recovered, although in other respects his physique 
became robust and powerful. He received his formal educa- 
tion chiefly in the Edinburgh High School. He was by no 
means regarded as a brilliant pupil, and after a year or more 
of subsequent study at the University of Edinburgh, he quit 
his academic studies permanently upon the occasion of a severe 
illness. He then began to study law, and in 1792 was admitted 
to practice. In 1797 he married a Miss Charpentier, who was 
the daughter of a French refugee. Two years later he was 
appointed Sheriff-depute of Selkirkshire, and in 1806 Clerk 
of Sessions. It is remarkable that Scott was always more 
proud of his standing as a country squire and civil officer than 
as a writer. 

Scott’s first conspicuous literary labor was a collection of 
the ancient ballads of Scotland, published in 1802-1803. The 
‘^Lay of the Last Minstrel,” his first original poem of note, 
appeared in 1805. From then until 1817 there succeeded one 
another at intervals the poems of which “ Marmion ” (1808) 


WAVERLEY. 


XV 


and the “Lady of the Lake” (1810) are examples. Their 
popularity was extreme. Feeling, however, in 1814 that he 
was being eclipsed by Byron, he began the composition of the 
splendid historical novels, beginning with “ Waverley,” and 
ending, in 1831, with “Castle Dangerous.” Scott published 
liis earlier novels anonymously. But his fame continued to 
grow, and in 1820 he was offered, and accepted, a baronetcy. 

In 1826, Scott’s j^iihlisher. Constable, failed, involving the 
novelist to the enormous amount of £120,000. To pay this 
sum by the work of his pen was the task which Scott set for 
himself at the age of fifty-five. The pathetic struggle can- 
not be recorded here. Suffice it, however, to say that at his 
death, in 1832, hastened undoubtedly by his tremendous ex- 
ertions, the debt was reduced to £54,000, and this remainder 
was finally wiped out in 1847 by the proceeds of his writings. 
Scott died September 21, 1832, and was survived by two sons 
and two daughters. He is buried in the grounds of Dryburgh 
Abbey. 


WAVERLEY. 

“ Wayerley ” is an epoch-marking book. It is the first 
typical example of the modern historical novel. There were, 
to be sure, other novels of an historical cast that preceded it. 
Chief among such, in the memory of the present generation, 
are “ Thaddeus of Warsaw” (1803) and “ Scottish Chiefs ” 
(1810), both written by Miss Jane Porter, but these are novels 
of a wholly different stamp from those which Scott began with 
the writing of “ Waverley.” In their plan of composition 
they are more like “ Robinson Crusoe ” than like novels with 
a carefully made plot like “ Waverley.” 

Scott began to write “ Waverley” in 1805, but on showing 
to a friend what he had done, he was dissuaded from continu- 
ing it. The popularity of his poetry and the demand for it 
were so great, that there was no need for trying experiments 


XVI 


INTKODUCTION. 


in another kind of writing. In 1810, Scott took up the manu- 
script again, and possibly added a little to it; but again he was 
dissuaded from completing it, and it was not until 1814 that 
he definitely determined to finish it. The last two volumes 
— it was published as a three-volume novel — were written in 
three weeks. The work appeared anonymously in July, 1814. 
Scott afterwards explained his reason for refusing his name to 
the book. “I am not sure,’^ he wrote to a friend, “that it 
would be considered quite decorous for me as a Clerk of Ses- 
sions to write novels.” The success of the novel was instant. 
The publishers sold five editions in less than a year. The 
authorship of the book provided matter for much speculation. 
It was attributed to Jeffrey, the leading literary critic of the 
day; to Scott’s brother Thomas, who was in Canada; and by 
many to Scott himself. 

It is as a picture of Scottish life and manners that Scott 
sought acceptance for “ Waverley. ” Perhaps others of Scott’s 
novels have a keener dramatic interest; but few of them, looked 
at from the descriptive point of view, considering the perfec- 
tion with which the atmosphere, the local color, the charac- 
teristic types and modes of life of a past period of a noble race 
are reproduced — few of them, from this point of view, are more 
interesting or more vital. 

In condensing the novel the aim has been to reduce the 
book so as to make it available for more convenient use 
in the class-room. To this end, descriptive passages have 
been reduced, historical and moral discussions by the author 
omitted, and dialogue not essential to the main action of the 
plot has been omitted or shortened. The editor believes that 
pupils should not be allowed to lose sight of the fact that 
this is a condensed edition, and that they should be encour- 
aged to read the complete novel outside the class-room work. 


WAYERLEY. 


CHAPTER I. 

WAVEKLEY-HOKOUK — A KETROSPECT. 

It is sixty years since ^ Edward Waverley took leave of his 
family, to join the regiment of dragoons in which he had 
lately obtained a commission. It was a melancholy day at 
Waverley-Honour when the young officer parted with Sir 
Everard, the affectionate old uncle to whose title and estate 
he was presumptive heir. 

A difference in political opinions had early separated the 
Baronet from his younger brother Richard Waverley, the 
father of our hero. Sir Everard had inherited from his sires 
the whole train of Tory prejudices which had distinguished 
the house of Waverley since the Great Civil War. Richard, 
on the contrary, who was ten years younger, beheld himself 
born to the fortune of a second brother.'-^ The prospect of 
succession, if he could have anticipated that his elder brother 
would have remained a bachelor at seventy-two, might have 
led him to endure dragging through the greater part of his 
life as Master Richard at the Hall, the Baronet^s Brother,” 
in the hope that ere its conclusion he should be distinguished 
as Sir Richard Waverley of Waverley-Honour. But this was 
a consummation of things not to be expected at Richard^s 

1 Since the year 1745, when the events of this romance began. 

2 By the English law of inheritance both title and estate passed to the elder 
brother. 


2 


WAVERLEY. 


outset, when Sir Everard was in the prime of life, and cer- 
tain to be an acceptable suitor in almost any family. He saw 
no practicable road to independence save that of relying 
upon his own exertions, and adopting a political creed more 
consonant both to reason and his own interest than the here- 
ditary faith of Sir Everard in High- Church and in the House 
of Stuart. He therefore read his recantation at the begin- 
ning of his career, and entered life as an avowed Whig and 
friend of the Hanover succession. 

Because of his family connexions, Richard Waverley as a 
Whig met with a share of ministerial favour more than pro- 
portioned to his talents or his political importance. It was, 
however, discovered that he had respectable talents for public 
business, and the first admittance to the minister^’s levee be- 
ing negotiated, his success became rapid. 

The Baronet, although the mildest of human beings, was 
not without sensitive points in his character ; his brother^’s 
conduct had wounded these deeply; the Waverley estate was 
fettered by no entail,^ and the marriage of the proprietor 
might have been fatal to a collateral heir. These various 
ideas fioated through the brain of Sir Everard without pro- 
ducing any determined conclusion. 

However, Sir Everard, in the heat of his resentment, dis- 
patched his groom for Lawyer Olippurse, and had he arrived 
but an hour earlier, he might have had the benefit of drawing 
a new settlement of the lordship and manor of Waverley- 
Honour, with all its dependencies. Lawyer Olippurse found 
his patron involved in a deep study, which he was too respect- 
ful to disturb, otherwise than by producing his paper and 
leathern ink-case. Even this slight manoeuvre was embar- 
rassing to Sir Everard, who felt it as a reproach to his inde- 
cision. He looked at the attorney with some desire to jssue 
his fiat, when the sun, emerging from behind a cloud, poured 
at once its chequered light through the stained window of 

1 That is, might be bequeathed unconditionally. 


WAVERLEY-HONOUE — A RETROSPECT. 


3 


the gloomy cabinet in which they were seated. The Baronet’s, 
eye, as he raised it to the splendour, fell right upon the cen- 
tral scutcheon, impressed with the same device which his 
ancestor was said to have borne in the field of Hastings, — 
three ermines passant,^ argent,^ in a field azure, with its ap- 
propriate motto, Sans tacked May our name rather perish,” 
exclaimed Sir Everard, “than that ancient and loyal symbol 
should be blended with the dishonoured insignia of a traitor- 
ous Eoundhead ! ” The attorney was dismissed. 

The vehemence of Sir Everard’s resentment against his 
brother was but short-lived; yet his dislike to the Whig, 
though unable to stimulate him to resume any active 
measures prejudicial to Richard’s interest, in the succession 
to the family estate, continued to maintain the coldness be- 
tween them. Richard knew enough of the world, and of his 
brother’s temper, to believe that by any ill-considered or 
precipitate advances on his part, he might turn passive dis- 
like into a more active principle. It was accident, therefore, 
which at length occasioned a renewal of their intercourse. 
Richard had married a young woman of rank, by whose 
family interest and private fortune he hoped to advance his 
career. In her right he became possessor of a manor of 
some value, at the distance of a few miles from Waverley- 
Honour. 

Little Edward, the hero of our tale, then in his fifth year, 
was their only child. It chanced that the infant with his 
maid had strayed one morning to a mile’s distance from the 
avenue of Brere-wood Lodge, his father’s seat. Their atten- 
tion was attracted by a carriage drawn by six stately long- 
tailed black horses, and with as much carving and gilding as 
would have done honour to my lord mayor’s. It was waiting 

1 i.e. walking. 

2 The white color which in escutcheons was used to represent silver. Tt symbolized 

purity. ® Without stain. 

* A nickname for the Puritans, who supported Oliver Cromwell ; the term was derived 
from the shape of the helmets worn by his soldiers. 


4 


WAVERLEY. 


for the owner, who was at a little distance inspecting the 
progress of a half-built farmhouse. The baronet arrived 
while the boy’s maid was in vain endeavouring to make him 
desist from a determination to appropriate the gilded coach 
and six. The rencontre ^ was at a happy moment for Edward, 
as his uncle had been just eyeing wistfully, with something of 
a feeling like envy, the chubby boys of the stout yeoman 
whose mansion was building by his direction. Sir Everard 
returned to Waverley Hall upon a led horse, which was kept 
in readiness for him, while the child and his attendant were 
sent home in the carriage to Brere-wood Lodge, with such a 
message as opened to Richard Waverley a door of reconcilia- 
tion with his elder brother. 

Their intercourse, however, though thus renewed, con- 
tinued. to be rather formal and civil than partaking of 
brotherly cordiality. By a sort of tacit compromise, little 
Edward was permitted to pass the greater part of the year 
at the Hall, and appeared to stand in the same intimate 
relation to both families, although their mutual intercourse 
was otherwise limited to formal messages and more formal 
visits. The education of the youth was regulated alternately 
by the taste and opinions of his uncle and of his father. 


CHAPTER II. 

EDUCATION AND CASTLE-BUILDING. 

The education of our hero, Edward Waverley, was of a 
nature somewhat desultory. In infancy his health suffered, 
or was supposed to suffer, by the air of London. As soon, 
therefore, as official duties called his father to town, Edward 
was transferred to Waverley-Honour, and experienced a total 
change of instructors and of lessons, as well as of residence. 

^ meeting. 


EDUCATION AND CASTLE-BUILDING. 


5 


Richard prevailed upon his private secretary, a young man 
of taste and accomplishments, to bestow an hour or two on 
Edward’s education while at Brere-wood Lodge, and left his 
uncle answerable for his improvement in literature while an 
inmate at the Hall. 

This was in some degree respectably provided for. Sir 
Everard’s chaplain was not only an excellent classical scholar, 
but reasonably skilled in science, and master of most modern 
languages. He was, however, old and indulgent, and the 
recurring interregnum, during which Edward was entirely 
freed from his discipline, occasioned such a relaxation of 
authority that the youth was permitted, in a great measure, 
to learn as he pleased, what he pleased, and when he pleased. 

The occasional attention of his parents might indeed have 
been of service to prevent the dissipation of mind incidental 
to such a desultory course of training. But his mother died 
in the seventh year after the reconciliation between the 
brothers, and Richard Waverley himself, who, after this 
event, resided more constantly in London, was too much in- 
terested in his own plans of wealth and ambition to notice 
more respecting Edward than that he was of a very book- 
ish turn, and probably destined to be a bishop. If he could 
have discovered and analysed his son’s waking dreams he 
would have formed a very different conclusion. 

Edward was in his sixteenth year when his habits of abstrac- 
tion and love of solitude became so much marked as to excite 
Sir Everard’s affectionate apprehension. He tried to counter- 
balance these propensities by engaging his nephew in field- 
sports, which had been the chief pleasure of his own youthful 
days. But although Edward eagerly carried the gun for one 
season, yet when practice had given him some dexterity, the 
pastime ceased to afford him amusement. 

The hours he spent with his uncle and aunt were exhausted 
in listening to the oft-repeated tales of narrative old age. 
By them his imagination was frequently excited. 


6 


WAVERLEY. 


The deeds of Wilbert of Waverley in the Holy Land, his 
long absence and perilous adventures, his supposed death, 
and his return on the evening when the betrothed of his 
heart had wedded the hero who had protected her from 
insult and oppression during his absence ; the generosity 
with which the Crusader relinquished his claims, and sought 
in a neighbouring cloister that peace which passeth not away ; 
— to these and similar tales he would hearken till his heart 
glowed and his eye glistened. Nor was he less affected when 
his aunt. Miss Eachel, narrated the sufferings and fortitude 
of Lady Alice Waverley during the great Civil War.* The 
benevolent features of the venerable spinster kindled into 
more majestic expression as she told how Charles had, after 
the field of Worcester, found a day^s refuge at Waverley- 
Honour, and how when a troop of cavalry were approaching 
to search the mansion. Lady Alice dismissed her youngest 
son with a handful of domestics, charging them to make 
good with their lives an hour^s diversion, that the king might 
have that space for escape. And, God help her,^'’ would 
Miss Eachel continue, fixing her eyes upon the heroine^s 
portrait as she spoke, ‘^^full dearly did she purchase the 
safety of her prince with the life of her darling child. They 
brought him here a prisoner, mortally wounded ; and you 
may trace the drops of his blood from the great hall door 
along the little gallery, and up to tlie saloon, where they 
laid him down to die at his mother’s feet.” 

As living in this ideal world became daily more delectable 
to our hero, interruption was disagreeable in proportion. 
The extensive domain that surrounded the Hall, which, far 
exceeding the dimensions of a park, was usually termed 
W^averley- Chase, had originally been forest ground, and still, 
though broken by extensive glades, in which the young deer 
were sporting, retained its pristine and savage character. 
In one spot, distinguished by a moss-grown Gothic monu- 

I The Cromwellian Wars. The battle of Worcester was fought in J6j51, 


CHOICE OF A PROFESSION. 


7 


ment, which retained the name of Queen’s Standing, Eliza- 
beth herself was said to have pierced seven bucks with her 
own arrows. Through these scenes it was that Edward, like 
a child among his toys, culled and arranged, from the splen- 
did yet useless imagery and emblems with which his imagi- 
nation was stored, visions as brilliant and as fading as those 
of an evening sky. 


CHAPTER HI. 

CHOICE OF A PROFESSION. 

The list of the beauties who displayed their finery at the 
parish church of Waverley was neither numerous nor select. 
By far the most passable was Miss Sissly, or, as she rather 
chose to be called. Miss Cecilia Stubbs, daughter of Squire 
Stubbs at the Grange. I know not whether it was by the 

merest accident in the world,” a phrase which, from female 
lips, does not always exclude malice prepense, or whether it 
was from a conformity of taste, that Miss Cecilia more than 
once crossed Edward in his favourite walks through Waver- 
ley-Chase. He had not as yet assumed courage to accost 
her on these occasions ; but the meeting was not without its 
effect. 

But ere the charms of Miss Cecilia Stubbs had erected her 
into a positive goddess, or elevated her at least to a level 
with the saint her namesake. Miss Rachel \Yaverley gained 
some intimation which determined her to prevent the ap- 
proaching apotheosis. She applied herself with great prur 
dence, not to combat, but to elude, the approaching danger, 
and suggested to her brother the necessity that the heir of 
his house should see something more of the world than was 
consistent with constant residence at Waverley-Honour. 

Sir Everard would not at first listen to a proposal which 


8 


WAVERLEY. 


went to separate his nephew from him. Aunt KacheFs 
anxiety, however, lent her address to carry her point. Every 
representative of their house had visited foreign parts, or 
served his country in the army, before he settled for life at 
Waverley-Honour. In short, by the influence of Mr. Eichard 
Waverley, Edward was commissioned Captain Waverley, of 
Gardiner^s regiment of dragoons, which he must join in their 
quarters at Dundee, in Scotland, in the course of a month. 

Edward Waverley himself received with animated and un- 
deflned surprise this most unexpected intelligence. The 
transient idea of Miss Cecilia Stubbs passed from his heart 
amid the turmoil which his new destinies excited. She 
appeared, indeed, in full splendour in her father^s pew upon 
the Sunday he attended service for the last time at the old 
parish church, upon which occasion, at the request of his 
uncle and Aunt Eachel, he was induced (nothing loth, if the 
truth must be told) to present himself in full uniform. 

Miss Stubbs had indeed summoned up every assistance 
which art could afford to beauty ; but, alas ! hoop, patches, 
frizzled locks, and a new mantua of genuine French silk, 
were lost upon a young officer of dragoons who wore for the 
flrst time his gold-laced hat, jack-boots, and broadsword. 
It is a melancholy fact, that my history must here take leave 
of the fair Cecilia, who gave her hand, at the distance of six 
months, to Jonas, son of the BaroneCs steward. 


CHAPTEE IV. 

THE ADIEUS OF WAVERLEY. 

It was upon the evening of this memorable Sunday that 
Sir Everard entered the library, where he narrowly missed 
surprising our young hero as he went through the guards of 


THE ADIEUS OP WAVERLEY. 


9 


the broadsword with the ancient weapon of old Sir Hilde- 
brand, an heirloom which usually hung over the chimney 
in the library. Sir Everard entered, and after a glance 
at his nephew, began a little speech, which, however, soon 
dropt into the natural simplicity of his common manner, 
agitated upon the present occasion by no common feeling. 

Hephew,^' he said ; and then, as mending his phrase, My 
dear Edward, it is God's will, and also the will of your father, 
whom, under God, it is your duty to obey, that you should 
leave us to take up the profession of arms, in which so many 
of your ancestors have been distinguished. I have made such 
arrangements as will enable you to take the field as their 
descendant, and as the probable heir of the house of Waver- 
ley ; and, sir, in the field of battle you will remember what 
name you bear. And, Mward, my dear boy, remember also 
that you are the last of that race, and the only hope of its 
revival depends upon you ; therefore, as far as duty and 
honour will permit, avoid danger — I mean unnecessary dan- 
ger — and keep no company with rakes, gamblers, and AYhigs, 
of whom, it is to be feared, there are but too many in the ser- 
vice into which you are going. Your colonel, as I am in- 
formed, is an excellent man — for a Presbyterian ; but you will 
remember your duty to God, the Church of England, and 

the" (this breach ought to have been supplied, according 

to the rubric, with the word king ; but as, unfortunately, 
that word conveyed a double and embarrassing sense, ^ the 
knight filled up the blank otherwise) — ^Mhe Church of 
England and all constituted authorities." Then, not trusting 
himself with any further oratory, he carried his nephew to 
his stables to see the horses destined for his campaign. 

You will depart with but a small retinue," quoth the 
Baronet, compared to Sir Hildebrand, when he mustered 
before the gate of the Hall a larger body of horse than your 
whole regiment consists of. I could have wished that these 

1 i.e. because of the rival claims of the Pretender to the throne occupied by George II. 


10 


WAVEELEY. 


twenty young fellows from my estate who have enlisted in 
your troop, had been to march with you on your journey to 
Scotland. It would have been something, at least ; but I am 
told their attendance would he thought unusual in these 
days, when every new and foolish fashion is introduced to 
break the natural dependence of the people upon their land- 
lords.'’^ 

After inspecting the cavalry. Sir Everard again conducted 
his nephew to the library, where he produced a letter. It 
was addressed, with great formality, To Cosmo Comyne 
Bradwardine, Esq., of Bradwardine, at his principal mansion 
of Tully-Veolan, in Perthshire, North Britain. These — By 
the hands of Captain Edward Waverley, nephew of Sir ' 
Everard Waverley, of Waverley-Honour, Bart.'’^ 

The gentleman to whom this enormous greeting was ad- 
dressed had been in arms for the exiled family of Stuart in 
the year 1715, and was made prisoner at Preston, in Lan- 
cashire. His defence and final deliverance, together with 
that of some other captives made at the same time, was man- 
aged partly at the expense of Sir Everard, The Baron of 
Bradwardine, for he was generally so called in Scotland, was 
no sooner free from danger of trial for high treason than he 
posted down to pay his respects and make his acknowledg- 
ments at Waverley-Honour. After this visit, a yearly inter- 
course took place, of a short letter and a hamper or a cask 
or two, between Waverley-Honour and Tully-Veolan, the 
English exports consisting of mighty cheeses and mightier 
ale, pheasants, and venison, and the Scottish returns being 
vested in grouse, white hares, pickled salmon, and usque- 
baugh ; all which were meant, sent, and received as pledges 
of constant friendship and amity between two important 
houses. 

When this matter was explained and settled, Mr. Pembroke 
expressed a wish to take a private and particular leave of his 
dear pupil. The good man exhorted Edward to preserve an 


A HORSE QUARTER US’ SCOTLAND — TULLY-VEOLAN. 11 


unblemished life and morals, to hold fast the principles of 
the Christian religion, and to eschew the profane company 
of scoffers. 

Then he produced two immense folded packets, which 
appeared each to contain a whole ream of closely written 
manuscript. They were treatises in vindication of the real 
fundamental principles of Church and State, and had been 
the labour of the worthy man^s whole life. Never were 
labour and zeal more absurdly wasted. The title of the first 
was, Dissent from Dissenters, or the Comprehension 

Confuted ; showing the Impossibility of any Composition be- 
tween the Church and Puritans, Presbyterians, or Sectaries 
of any Description ; illustrated from the Scriptures, the 
Fathers of the Church, and the soundest Controversial Di- 
vines.'’^ That of the other was, Eight Hereditary Eighted.'’^ 
Edward, seeing nothing very inviting in the title of the 
tracts, and appalled by the bulk and compact lines of the 
manuscript, quietly consigned them to a corner of his trav- 
elling trunk. 

Aunt EachePs farewell was brief and affectionate. She 
only cautioned her dear Edward, whom she probably deemed 
somewhat susceptible, against the fascination of Scottish 
beauty. She concluded her farewell with a kind and moving 
benediction, and gave the young officer, as a pledge of her 
regard, a valuable diamond ring (often worn by the male 
sex at that time) and a purse of broad gold pieces. 


CHAPTEE V. 

A HORSE QUARTER IN SCOTLAND — TULLY-VEOLAN. 

The next morning, amid varied feelings, Edward Waverley 
departed from the Hall. After a short visit to London, he 
proceeded on horseback to Edinburgh, and from thence to 


12 


WAVERLEY. 


Dundee, a seaport on the eastern coast of Angus-shire, where 
his regiment was then quartered. 

He now entered upon a new world, where, for a time, all 
was beautiful because all was new. Colonel Gardiner, the 
commanding officer of the regiment, was himself a study for 
a romantic, and at the same time an inquisitive, youth. In 
person he was tall, handsome, and active, though somewhat 
advanced in life. In his early years he had been a very gay 
young man,- and strange stories were circulated about his 
sudden conversion from doubt, if not infidelity, to a serious 
and even enthusiastic turn of mind. It was whispered that 
a supernatural communication had produced this wonderful 
change. This singular and mystical circumstance gave 
Colonel Gardiner a peculiar and solemn interest in the eyes 
of the young soldier. 

Meanwhile his military education proceeded. Already a 
good horseman, he was now initiated into the arts which, 
when carried to perfection, almost realise the fable of the 
Centaur.^ He received also instructions in his field duty; 
but when his first ardour was past, his progress fell short in 
the latter particular of what he wished and expected. Our 
hero was liable to fits of absence, in which his blunders ex- 
cited some mirth, and called down some reproof. Time, in 
the meanwhile, hung heavy on his hands. The gentry of 
the neighbourhood were disaffected, and showed little hospi- 
tality to the military guests. The arrival of summer, and a 
curiosity to know something more of Scotland than he could 
see in a ride from his quarters, determined him to request 
leave of absence for a few weeks. He resolved first to visit 
his undoes ancient friend. He travelled on horseback with 
a single attendant. Traversing an open and uninclosed 
country, Edward gradually approached the Highlands of 
Perthshire, which at first had appeared a blue outline in the 

1 The Centaur was a fabled monster of Greek mythology, half man and half horse. 
In place of the head and neck of the horse was the body of a man from the waist up. 


I A d:ORSE QUARTER IN SCOTLAND — TULLY-VEOLAN. 13 

) 

hUl-i^on, but now swelled into huge gigantic masses, which 
frowned defiance over the more level country that lay beneath 
them. Near the bottom of this stupendous barrier, but still 
in the lowland country, dwelt Cosmo Comyne Brad war dine 
of Bradwardine ; and, if grey-haired eld ' can be in aught be- 
lieved, there had dwelt his ancestors, with all their heritage, 
since the days of the gracious King Duncan. 

It was about noon when Captain Waverley entered the 
straggling village, or rather hamlet, of Tully-Veolan, close 
to which was situated the mansion of the proprietor. The 
houses seemed miserable in the extreme, especially to an eye 
accustomed to the smiling neatness of English cottages. 

As Waverley moved on, here and there an old man, bent as 
much by toil as years, his eyes bleared with age and smoke, 
tottered to the door of his hut, to gaze on the dress of the 
stranger and the form and motions of the horses, and then as- 
sembled, with his neighbours, in a little group at the smithy, 
to discuss the probabilities of whence the stranger came and 
where he might be going. It seemed, upon the whole, as if 
poverty, and indolence, its too frequent companions, were 
combining to depress the natural genius and acquired infor- 
mation of a hardy, intelligent, and refiecting peasantry. 

Some such thoughts crossed Waverley^’s mind as he paced 
his horse slowly through the rugged and flinty street of Tully- 
Yeolan. The village was more than half a mile long, the 
cottages being irregularly divided from each other by gardens, 
or yards, as the inhabitants called them, of different sizes. 

About a bowshot from the end of the village appeared the 
enclosures proudly denominated the Parks of Tully-Veolan, 
being certain square fields, surrounded and divided by stone 
walls five feet in height. In the centre of the exterior barrier 
was the upper gate of the avenue, opening under an archway, 
battlemented on the top, and adorned with two large weather- 
beaten mutilated masses of upright stone, which, if the tra- 

* grey-haired old age. 


14 


WAVERLEY. 


dition of the hamlet could be trusted, had once represeWWa, 
at least had been once designed to represent, two rampant 
bears, the supporters ^ of the family of Bradwardine. This 
avenue was straight and of moderate length, running between 
a double row of very ancient horse-chestnuts, planted alter- 
nately with sycamores, which rose to such huge height, and 
flourished so luxuriantly, that their boughs completely over- 
arched the broad road beneath. Beyond these venerable ranks, 
and running parallel to them, were two high walls, of appar- 
ently the like antiquity, overgrown with ivy, honeysuckle, 
and other climbing plants. The avenue seemed very little 
trodden, and chiefly by foot-passengers ; so that being very 
broad, and enjoying a constant shade, it was clothed with 
grass of a deep and rich verdure, excepting where a footpath, 
worn by occasional passengers, tracked with a natural sweep 
the way from the upper to the lower gate. This nether por- 
tal, like the former, opened in front of a wall ornamented with 
some rude sculpture, with battlements on the top, over which 
were seen, half-hidden by the trees of the avenue, the high 
steep roofs and narrow gables of the mansion, with lines in- 
dented into steps, and corners decorated with small turrets. 
One of the folding leaves of the lower gate was open, and as 
the sun shone full into the court behind, a long line of bril- 
liancy was flung upon the aperture up the dark and gloomy 
avenue. 

The solitude and repose of the whole scene seemed almost 
monastic ; and Waverley, who had given liis horse to his 
servant on entering the flrst gate, walked slowly down the 
avenue, enjoying the grateful and cooling shade, and so much 
pleased with the placid ideas of rest and seclusion excited by 
this confined and quiet scene, that he forgot the misery and 
dirt of the hamlet he had left behind him. The opening into 
the paved courtyard corresponded with the rest of the scene. 

1 On either side of some heraldic escutcheons is portrayed an animal. The two are 
called the supporters of the escutcheon. 


A HOKSE QUARTER IN SCOTLAND— TULLY-VEOLAN. 15 


The house, which seemed to consist of two or three high, 
narrow, and steep-roofed buildings, projecting from each 
other at right angles, formed one side of the enclosure. It 
had been built at a period when castles were no longer neces- 
sary, and when the Scottish architects had not yet acquired 
the art of designing a domestic residence. The windows 
were numberless, but very small ; the roof displayed at each 
frequent angle a small turret, rather resembling a pepper-box 
than a Grothic watch-tower. Neither did the front indicate 
absolute security from danger. There were loop-holes for 
musketry, and iron stanchions on the lower windows, probably 
to repel any roving band of gipsies, or resist a predatory 
visit from the Oaterans * of the neighbouring Highlands. 
Stables and other offices occupied another side of the square. 

One corner of the court displayed a fountain, where a huge 
bear, carved in stone, predominated over a large stone-basin, 
into which he disgorged the water. This work of art was 
the wonder of the country ten miles round. It must not be 
forgotten that all sorts of bears, small and large, demi or in 
full proportion, were carved over the windows, upon the ends 
of the gables, terminated the spouts, and supported the tur- 
rets, with the ancient family motto, t^C 

cut under each hyperborean form. The court was spacious, 
well paved, and perfectly clean. Everything around appeared 
solitary, and would have been silent, but for the continued 
plashing of the fountain ; and the whole scene still main- 
tained the monastic illusion which the fancy of Waverley had 
conjured up. 

After having satisfied his curiosity by gazing around him 
for a few minutes, Waverley applied himself to the massive 
knocker of the hall-door, the architrave “ of which bore the 
date 1594. But no answer was returned, though the peal 
resounded through a number of apartments, and was echoed 
from the courtyard walls without the house. 

1 Highland freebooters or robbers. 


2 beam over the door. 


16 


WAVERLEY. 


Next our hero turned to a little oaken wicket-door, well 
clenched with iron nails, which, when opened, admitted him 
into the garden, where was presented a pleasant scene. Upon 
the green two damsels, each standing in a spacious tub, per- 
formed with their feet the office of a patent washing machine. 
A^larmed at the appearance of a stranger, with a shrill ex- 
clamation of Eh, sirs ! uttered with an accent between 
modesty and coquetry, they sprung off like deers in different 
directions. 

Waverley began to despair of gaining entrance into this 
solitary and seemingly enchanted mansion, when a man ad- 
vanced up one of the garden alleys, where he still retained 
his station. Edward 'descended the steps in order to meet 
him ; but as the figure approached, he was struck with the 
oddity of its appearance and gestures. Sometimes this mister 
wight held his hands clasped over his head, sometimes he 
swung them perpendicularly, like a pendulum, on each side; 
and anon he slapt them swiftly and repeatedly across his 
breast, like the substitute used by a hackney-coachman for 
his usual flogging exercise, when his cattle are idle upon the 
stand, in a clear frosty day. His gait was as singular as his 
gestures, for at times he hopped with great perseverance on 
the right foot, then exchanged that supporter to advance in 
the same manner on the left, and then putting his feet close 
together he hopped upon both at once. His attire also was 
antiquated and extravagant. It consisted in a sort of grey 
jerkin, with scarlet cuffs and slashed sleeves, showing a scar- 
let lining. 

Lifting up his eyes, which had hitherto been fixed in ob- 
serving how his feet kept time, he beheld Waverley, and 
instantly doffed his cap, with many grotesque signals of sur- 
prise, respect, and salutation. Edward requested to know 
whether Mr. Bradwardine were at home. 

He received a rapid answer, in which, from the haste and 
peculiarity of the dialect, the word ^'butler"’ was alone 


A HORSE QUARTER IN SCOTLAND — TULLY-VEOLAN. 17 


intelligible. Waverley then requested to see the butler ; 
upon which the fellow, with a knowing look and nod of in- 
telligence, made a signal to Edward to follow, and began 
to dance and caper down the alley up which he had made his 
approaches. Soon he reached the bottom of the alley, where, 
turning short on a little parterre of flowers, shrouded from 
the east and north by a close yew hedge, he found an old 
man at work without his coat, whose appearance hovered be- 
tween that of an upper servant and gardener. 

The major domo, for such he was, laid down his spade, 
slipped on his coat in haste, and with a wrathful look at 
Edward^s guide, probably excited by his having introduced a 
stranger while he was engaged in this laborious, and, as he 
might suppose it, degrading office, requested to know the 
gentleman^s commands. Being informed that he wished to 
pay his respects to his master, that his name was Waverley, 
the old man^s countenance assumed a great deal of respectful 
importance. He could take it upon his conscience to say, 
his honour would have exceeding pleasure in seeing him. 
Would not Mr. Waverley choose some refreshment after his 
journey ? His honour was with the folk who were getting 
doon the dark hag ; the twa gardener lads had been ordered 
to attend him.” 

The butler commanded Edward^s fantastic conductor, by 
the name of David Gellatley, to look for his honour at the 
dark hag, and tell him there was a gentleman from the south 
had arrived at the Ha\ 

Can this poor fellow deliver a letter ?” asked Edward. 

With all fidelity, sir, to any one whom he respects. I 
would hardly trust him with a long message by word of 
mouth — though he is more knave * than fooL” 

Waverley delivered his credentials to Mr. Gellatley, who 

1 Knave originally meant no more than hoy or boy servant — compare the German 
knahe. But gradually the word took on its modern signification— i.e., a tricky, deceitful, 
dishonest person ; a rogue ; a villain. Probably the word in j;he text implies trickiness 
knd deceit merely. 


18 


WAVERLEY. 


seemed to confirm the butler^s last observation, by twisting 
his features at him, when he was looking another way, into 
the resemblance of the grotesque face on the bole of a Ger- 
man tobacco pipe ; after which, he danced off to discharge 
his errand. 

'^He is an innocent,^ sir,^^ said the butler; ^Hhere is one 
such in almost every town in the country, but ours is brought 
far ben.® He used to work a day^’s turn weel enough. But 
since he got that gay clothing, he has done naething but 
dance up and down about the toun,^ without doing a single 
turn, unless trimming the laird's fishing- wand, or may be 
catching a dish of trouts. But here comes Miss Eose, who, 
'I take burden upon me for her, will be especial glad to see 
one of the house of Waverley at her father's mansion of 
Tully-Veolan." 

CHAPTEE VI. 

ROSE BRADWARDINE AND HER FATHER. 

Miss Bradwardine was but seventeen ; yet, at the last 

races of the country town of , upon her health being 

proposed among a round of beauties, the Laird of Bumper- 
quaigh, permanent toast-master of the Bautherwhillery Club, 
pouring forth the libation, denominated the divinity to whom 
it was dedicated, ‘^Hhe Eose of Tully-Veolan upon which 
festive occasion three cheers were given by all the sitting 
members of that respectable society whose throats the wine 
had left capable of such exertion. 

Such unanimous applause could not be extorted but by 
acknowledged m,erit ; and Eose Bradwardine deserved it. 
She was indeed a very pretty girl of the Scotch cast of beauty, 
that is, with a profusion of hair of paley gold, and a skin like 

* A provincial expression for an idiot. 2 yery much in favor. 

3 In Scotland a house was sometimes called a town. 


ROSE BRADWARDIN’E AND HER FATHER. 


19 


tlie snow of her own mountains in whiteness. Her features, 
as well as her temper, had a lively expression; her complexion, 
though not florid, was so pure as to seem transparent, and 
the slightest emotion sent her whole blood at once to her 
face and neck. Her form, though under the common size, 
was remarkably elegant, and her motions light, easy, and 
unembarrassed. She came from another part of the garden 
to receive Captain Waverley with a manner that hovered be- 
tween bashfulness and courtesy. 

The first greetings past, Edward learned from her that the 
darh hag, which had somewhat puzzled him in the butler^s 
account of his masters avocations, had nothing to do either 
with a black cat or a broomstick, bilt was simply a portion 
of oak copse which was to be felled that day. She offered, 
with diffident civility, to show the stranger the way to the 
spot, which, it seems, was not far distant ; but they were 
prevented by the appearance of the Baron of Bradwardine in 
person, clearing the ground at a prodigious rate with swift 
and long strides, which reminded Waverley of the seven- 
league boots of the nursery fable. He was a tall, thin, 
athletic figure, old indeed and grey-haired, but with every 
muscle rendered as tough as whip-cord by constant exercise. 
From his hard features and perpendicular rigidity of stature, 
he bore some resemblance to a Swiss officer of the guards, 
who had resided some time at Paris, and caught the costume, 
but not the ease or manner, of its inhabitants. 

At his first address to Waverley, it would seem that the 
hearty pleasure he felt to behold the nephew of his friend 
had somewhat discomposed the stiff and upright dignity of 
the Baron of Bradwardine^s demeanour, for the tears stood 
in the old gentleman’s eyes, when, having first shaken Ed- 
ward heartily by the hand, in the English fashion, he em- 
braced him d-la-mode Frangoise,^ and kissed him on both 
sides of his face. 


» in the French fashion. 


20 


WAVERLEY. 


‘"‘"Upon the honour of a gentleman/'’ he said, ^^but it makes 
me young again to see you here, Mr. Waverley ! A worthy 
scion of the old stock of Waverley-Honour, and you have 
the look of the old line, Captain Waverley; not so portly yet 
as my old friend Sir Everard — mais cela viendra avec le terns, ^ 
as my Dutch acquaintance, Baron Kikkitbroeck, said of the 
sagesse of Madame son epouse.'^ And so ye have mounted 
the cockade? Eight, right; though I could have wished the 
colour different, and so I would ha^ deemed might Sir Eve- 
rard. But no more of that; I am old, and times are changed. 
And how does the worthy knight baronet, and the fair Miss 
Eachel ? — Ah, ye laugh, young man ! In troth she was the 
fair Miss Eachel in thelyear of grace seventeen hundred and 
sixteen ; but time passes, that is most certain. But once 
again ye are most heartily welcome to my poor house of 
Tully-Veolan! Hie to the house, Eose, and see that Alex- 
ander Saunderson looks out the old Chateau Margaux, which 
I sent from Bourdeaux to Dundee in the year 1713.’^ 

Eose tripped off demurely enough till she turned the first 
corner, and then ran with the speed of a fairy, that she might 
gain leisure, after discharging her father^’s commission, to put 
her own dress in order, and produce all her little finery. 

^AYe cannot rival the luxuries of your English table. Cap- 
tain Waverley, or give you the epulcB lautiores^ of Waverley- 
Honour. But once more. Captain Waverley, right glad am I 
that ye are here to drink the best my cellar can make forth- 
coming.'’'’ 

With much ceremony, and still more real kindness, the 
Baron, without stopping in any intermediate apartment, con- 
ducted his guest through several into the great dining parlour, 
wainscotted with black oak, and hung round with the pic- 
tures of his ancestry, where a table was set forth, and an 
old-fashioned beaufet ^ displayed all the ancient and massive 


1 but that will come with time. 
3 state banquets. 


2 the wisdom of his wife. 
4 side-board. 


ROSE BRADWARDINE AND HER FATHER. 21 

plate of the Bradwardine family. A bell was now heard at 
the head of the avenue ; for an old man, who acted as porter 
upon gala days, had caught the alarm given by Waverley^s 
arrival, and, repairing to his post, announced the arrival of 
other guests. 

These, as the Baron assured his young friend, were very 
estimable persons. There was the young Laird of Balma- 
whapple, given right much to field-sports — gaudet equis et 
canihiis * — but a very discreet young gentleman. Then there 
was the Laird of Killancureit, who had devoted his leisure to 
agriculture, and boasted himself to he possessed of a bull of 
matchless merit, brought from the county of Devon. He is, 
as ye may well suppose from such a tendency, but of yeoman 
extraction — and I believe, between ourselves, his grandsire 
was one Bullsegg from the wrong side of the Border. There 
is, besides, a clergyman of the true Episcopal Church of 
Scotland. He was a confessor in her cause after the year 
1715, when a Whiggish mob destroyed his meeting-house, tore 
his surplice, and plundered his dwelling-house of four silver 
spoons, with two barrels of ale, besides three bottles of 
brandy. My baron-bailie,^ Mr. Duncan Macwheeble, is the 
fourth on our list.^^ 

[The banquet which foUoiued was one typical of the old 
Barones hospitality. After the dinner, during which the 
glass made repeated circuits, the Baron proposed the health of 
the heir of Waverley - Honour zuith a pint of claret drunk from 
an ancestral cup, brought forth only upon great occasions. 
The banquet was prolonged to a late hour, with toasts and 
much conviviality .'I 


1 Literally, “ He takes pleasure in horses and dogs,” i.e. the chase. 
* steward of the estate. 


22 


WAVERLEY. 


CHAPTER VIL 

ACQUAINTANCE PROGRESSES. 

Waverley was unaccustomed to the use of wine, excepting 
with great temperance. He slept therefore soundly till late in 
the succeeding morning. Descending to the breakfast-parlour, 
he found Miss Bradwardine presiding over the tea and cotfee, 
the table loaded with warm bread, both of flour, oatmeal, 
and barley meal, together with eggs, reindeer-ham, mutton 
and beef ditto, smoked salmon, marmalade, and all the other 
delicacies which induced even Johnson himself to extol the 
luxury of a Scotch breakfast above that of all other countries. 

The baron invited his guest to a morning ride, and ordered 
that Davie Gellatley should meet them at the dern* path with 
Ban and Buscar. For, until the shooting season commence, 
I would willingly show you some sport, and we ma}^, God 
willing, meet with a roe. The roe. Captain Waverley, may 
be hunted at all times alike ; he is never out of season, 
though it be a truth that his venison is not equal to that of 
either the red or fallow deer. But he will serve to show 
how my dogs run ; and therefore they shall attend us with 
David Gellatley.” 

Waverley expressed his surprise that his friend Davie was 
capable of such trust ; but the Baron gave him to under- 
stand that this poor simpleton was simply a crack-brained 
knave, who could execute very well any commission which 
jumped with his own humour, and made his folly a plea for 
avoiding every other. ^^He has made an interest with us,” 
continued the Baron, ^^by saving Rose from a great danger 
Avith his own proper peril ; and the roguish loon must there- 
fore eat of our bread and drink of our cup, and do what he 
can, or what he will, which, if the suspicions of Saunderson 

* secret. 


ACQUAINTANCE PROGRESSES. 


23 


and the Bailie are well founded, may perchance in his case 
ibe commensurate terms.’’^ 

The stamping of horses was now heard in the court, and 
the two men proceeded thither. 

The Baron of Bradwardine, mounted on an active and well- 
managed horse, was no bad representative of the old school. 
Ilis light-coloured embroidered coat, and superbly barred 
waistcoat, his brigadier wig, surmounted by a small gold- 
laced cocked hat, completed his personal costume ; and he 
was attended by two well-mounted servants on horseback, 
armed with holster-pistols. 

In this guise he ambled forth over hill and valley, the 
admiration of every farm-yard which they passed till they 
found David Gellatley leading two very tall deer greyhounds, 
and presiding over half-a-dozen curs, and about as many bare- 
legged and bare-headed boys, who, to procure the chosen 
distinction of attending on the chase, had not failed to tickle 
his ears with the dulcet appellation of Maister Gellatley, 
though probably all and each had hooted him on former 
occasions in the character of daft Davie. 

After half an hour^s search, a roe was started, coursed, and 
killed ; the Baron following on his white horse, and magnani- 
mously flaying and embowelling the slain animal with his 
own baronial couteau de cliasse.^ After this ceremony, he 
conducted his guest homeward by a pleasant and circuitous 
route, commanding an extensive prospect of different villages 
and houses, to each of which Mr. Bradwardine attached some 
anecdote of history of genealogy, told in language whimsi- 
cal from prejudice and pedantry, but often respectable for 
the good sense and honourable feelings which his narrative 
displayed. * 

Shortly after dinner, the Baron proposed a visit to Rosens 
apartment. Waverley was accordingly conducted through 
one or two of those long awkward passages with which ancient 

* hunting knife. 


24 


WAVERLEY. 


architects studied to puzzle the inhabitants of the houses 
which they planned, at the end of which Mr. Bradwardine 
began to ascend, by two steps at once, a very steep, narrow, 
and winding stair, leaving Waverley to follow at more leisure, 
while he should announce their approach to his daughter. 

After having climbed this perpendicular corkscrew until 
their brains were almost giddy, they arrived in a little matted 
lobby, which served as an anteroom to Eose^s sanctum sancto- 
rum, and through which they entered her parlour. It was 
a small, but pleasant apartment, opening to the south, and 
hung with tapestry ; adorned besides with two pictures, one 
of her mother in the dress of a shepherdess, with a bell-hoop ; 
the other of the Baron, in his tenth year, in a blue coat, 
embroidered waistcoat, laced hat, and bag-wig,' with a bow 
in his hand. 

Miss Kose appeared from the interior room of her apart- 
ment to welcome her father and his friend. The little 
labours in which she had been employed obviously showed a 
natural taste which required only cultivation. Her father 
had taught her French and Italian, and a few of the ordi- 
nary authors in those languages ornamented her shelves. 

A bartizan, or projecting gallery, before the windows of 
her parlour, served to illustrate another of Kose^s pursuits ; 
for it was crowded with flowers of different kinds, which she 
had taken under her special protection. A projecting turret 
gave access to this Gothic balcony, which commanded a most 
beautiful prospect. The formal garden, with its high bound- 
ing walls, lay below, contracted as it seemed, to a mere 
parterre ; while the view extended beyond them down a 
wooded glen, where the small river was sometimes visible, 
sometimes hidden in copse. To this pleasant station Miss 
Bradwardine had ordered coffee. 

The view of the old tower introduced some family anec- 
dotes and tales of Scottish chivalry, which the Baron told 

^ A wig used iu the eighteenth century, having the back hair confined in a bag. 


ACQUAINTANCE PROGRESSES. 


25 


with great enthusiasm. The projecting peak of an impend- 
ing crag which rose near it had acquired the name of St. 
Swithin^s Chair. It was the scene of ^ peculiar superstition, 
and Rose was called upon to sing a little legend in which 
it had been interwoven by some village poet. 

My father has a strange defiance of the marvellous, Cap- 
tain Waverley,” observed Rose, when she had finished, ^^and 
once stood firm when a whole synod of Presbyterian divines 
were put to the rout by a sudden apparition of the foul 
fiend. 

Waverley looked as if desirous to hear more. 

Must I tell my story as well as sing my song ? Well — 
Once upon a time there lived an old woman, called Janet 
Gellatley, who was suspected to be a witch, on the infallible 
grounds that she was very old, very ugly, very poor, and had 
two sons, one of whom was a poet and the other a fool, which 
visitation, all the neighbourhood agreed, had come upon her 
for the sin of witchcraft. And she was imprisoned for a 
week in the steeple of the parish church, and sparely sup- 
plied with food and not permitted to sleep, until she herself 
became as much persuaded of her being a witch as her. ac- 
cusers ; and in this lucid and happy state of mind was brought 
forth to make a clean breast — that is, to make open confes- 
sion of her sorceries — before all the Whig gentry and minis- 
ters in the vicinity, who were no conjurors themselves. My 
father went to see fair play between the witch and the clergy, 
for the witch had been born on his estate. And while the 
witch was confessing that the Enemy appeared, and made 
his addresses to her, as a handsome black man — which, if 
you could have seen poor old blear-eyed Janet, reflected lit- 
tle honour on ApollyoWs taste— and while the auditors listened 
with astonished ears, and the clerk recorded with a trem- 
bling hand, she, all of a sudden, changed the low, mumbling 
tone with which she spoke into a shrill yell, and exclaimed, 
^ Look to yourselves ! look to yourselves ! I see the Evil 


26 


WAVE RLE Y. 


One sitting in the midst of ye/ The surprise was general, 
and terror and flight its immediate consequences. Happy 
were those who were next the door ; and many were the dds- 
asters that befell hats, bands, cuffs, and wigs before they 
could get out of the church, where they left the obstinate 
prelatist to settle matters Avith the witch and her admirer at 
his own peril or pleasure.'’^ 

^^When they recovered their panic trepidation,” said the 
Baron, ^‘‘-they were too much ashamed to bring any waken- 
ing of the process against Janet Oellatley.” 

With such conversation, and the romantic legends which 
it introduced, the evening closed in the house of Tully- 
Veolan. 


CHAPTEK VIIL 

A LETTER — A HIGHLANDERS^ FORAY. 

The next day Edward arose betimes, and found a letter 
awaiting him. 

He had applied for, and now received permission, extend- 
ing his leave of absence. But the letter of his commanding 
officer contained a friendly recommendation to him not to 
spend his time exclusively with persons Avho, estimable as 
they might be in a general sense, could not be supposed well 
affected to a government which they declined to acknowl- 
edge by taking the oath of allegiance. The letter further 
insinuated, though with great delicacy, that although some 
family connexions might be supposed to render it necessary 
for Captain Waverley to communicate with gentlemen Who 
were in this unpleasant state of suspicion, yet his father^s 
situation and wishes ought to prevent his prolonging those 
attentions into exclusive intimacy. And it was intimated, 
that, while his political principles were endangered by com-. 


A LETTER — A HIGHLANDERS’ FORAY. 


27 


municating with laymen of this description, he might also 
receive erroneous impressions in religion from the prelatic 
clergy. 

This last insinuation probably induced Waverley to set 
both down to the prejudices of his commanding officer. He 
was sensible that Mr. Bradwardine had acted with the most 
scrupulous delicacy, in never entering upon any discussion 
that had the most remote tendency to bias his mind in politi- 
cal opinions, although he was himself not only a decided par- 
tisan of the exiled family, but had been trusted at different 
times with important commissions for their service. Sen- 
sible, therefore, that there was no risk of his being perverted 
from his allegiance, Edward felt as if he should do his undoes 
old friend injustice in removing from a house where he gave 
and received pleasure and amusement, merely to gratify a 
prejudiced and ill-judged suspicion. He therefore wrote a 
very general answer, assuring his commanding officer that 
his loyalty was not in the most distant danger of contamina- 
tion, and continued an honoured guest and inmate of tho 
house of Tully-Veolan. 

When Edward had been a guest at Tully-Veolan' nearly six 
weeks, he descried, one morning, as he took his usual walk 
before the breakfast-hour, signs of uncommon perturbation 
in the family. Four dairy-maids, with each an empty milk- 
pail in her hand, ran about with frantic gestures, and utter- 
ing loud exclamations of surprise, grief, and resentment. As 
nothing was to be got from this distracted chorus, excepting 

Lord guide us I and Eh, sirs ! ejaculations which 
threw no light upon the cause of their dismay, Waverley 
repaired to the fore-conrt, as it was called, where he beheld 
Bailie Macwheeble cantering his white pony down the ave- 
nue with all the speed it could muster. He had arrived, it 
would seem, upon a hasty summons, and was followed by half 
a score of peasants from the village, who had no great diffi- 
culty in keeping pace with him. 


28 


WAVEKLEY. 


The Bailie summoned forth Mr. Saunderson, who appeared 
with a countenance in which dismay was mingled with so- 
lemnity, and they immediately entered into close conference. 

Passing from thence towards the garden, Waverley beheld 
the Baron in person, measuring and remeasuring, with swift 
and tremendous strides, the length of the terrace ; his counte- 
nance clouded with offended pride and indignation. Waver- 
ley glided into the house, without addressing him, and took 
his way to the breakfast-parlour, where he found his young 
friend Bose, who seemed vexed and thoughtful. A single 
word explained the mystery. Your breakfast will be a dis- 
turbed one. Captain Waverley. A party of Oaterans have 
come down upon us last night, and have driven off all our 
milch-cows. 

A party of Oaterans ? 

Yes ; robbers from the neighbouring Highlands. We used 
to be quite free from them while we paid black-mail to Fergus 
Mac-Ivor Vich Ian Vohr ; but my father thought it un- 
worthy of his rank and birth to pay it any longer, and so this 
disaster has happened. It is not the value of the cattle. 
Captain Waverley, that vexes me ; but my father is so much 
hurt at the affront, and is so bold and hot, that I fear he will 
try to recover them by the strong hand ; and if he is not 
hurt himself, he will hurt some of these wild people, and 
then there will be no peace between them and us perhaps for 
our lifetime ; and we cannot defend ourselves as in old times, 
for the government have taken all our arms ; and my dear 

father is so rash — Oh, what will become of us ? Here 

poor Eose lost heart altogether, and burst into a flood of tears. 

The Baron entered at this moment, and rebuked her with 
more asperity than Waverley had ever heard him use to any 
one. Was it not a shame,” he said, ^^that she should ex- 
hibit herself before any gentleman in such a light, as if she 
shed tears for a drove of milch-kine, like the daughter of a 
Cheshire yeoman.” 


A LETTER— A HIGHLANDERS’ FORAY. 


29 


Bailie Macvvheeble entered immediately afterwards, in- 
forming tlie Baron, in a melancholy voice, that though the 
people would certainly obey his honour’s orders, yet there was 
no chance of their following the gear ^ to ony guid purpose, in 
respect there were only his honour’s body servants who had 
swords and pistols, and the depredators were twelve High- 
landers, completely armed after the manner of their country. 
Having delivered this doleful annunciation, he assumed a 
posture of silent dejection, shaking his head slowly with the 
motion of a pendulum when it is ceasing to vibrate, and then 
remained stationary, his body stooping at a more acute angle 
than usual, and the latter part of his person projecting in 
proportion. 

Here there was an awful pause ; after which all the com- 
pany, as is usual in cases of difficulty, began to give separate 
and inconsistent counsel. The butler proposed they should 
send some one to compound with the Caterans, who would 
readily, he said, give up their prey for a dollar a head. The 
Bailie opined that this transaction would amount to theft- 
boot, or composition of felony. Edward proposed to send 
off to the nearest garrison for a party of soldiers and a mag- 
istrate’s warrant ; and Eose endeavoured to insinuate the 
course of paying the arrears of tribute money to Fergus 
Mac-Ivor Vich Ian Vohr, who, they all knew, could easily 
procure restoration of the cattle, if he were properly pro- 
pitiated. 

None of these proposals met the Baron’s approbation. 

In fact, his voice was still for war, and he proposed to send 
expresses to Balmawhapple, Killancureit, Tulliellum, and 
other lairds, who were exposed to similar depredations, invit- 
ing them to join in the pursuit. 

The Bailie, who by no means relished these warlike coun- 
sels, here pulled forth an immense watch, of the colour, and 
nearly of the size, of a pewter warming-pan, and observed it 

1 property. 


30 


WAVERLEr. 


was now past noon, and that the Caterans had been seen in 
the pass of Ballybrough soon after sunrise ; so that, before 
the allied forces could assemble, they and their prey would be 
far beyond the reach of the most active pursuit, and sheltered 
in those pathless deserts, where it was neither advisable to 
follow, nor indeed possible to trace theni. 

This proposition was undeniable. The council therefore 
broke up without coming to any conclusion ; only it was de- 
termined that the Bailie should send his own three milch- 
cows down for the use of the Barones family, and brew small 
ale, as a substitute for milk, in his own. To this arrange- 
ment the Bailie readily assented, both from habitual defer- 
ence to the family, and an internal consciousness that his 
courtesy would, in some mode or other, be repaid ten- 
fold. 

The Baron having also retired to give some necessary direc- 
tions, Waverley seized the opportunity to ask, whether this 
Fergus, with the unpronounceable name, was the chief thief- 
taker of the district ? 

Thief -taker ! ” answered Rose, laughing ; he is a gentle- 
man of great honour and consequence, the chieftain of an in- 
dependent branch of a powerful Highland clan, and is much 
respected. 

And what has he to do with the thieves, then asked 
Waverley. 

That I cannot well explain ; but the boldest of them will 
never steal a hoof from any one that pays black-mail to Vich 
Ian Vohr.^^ 

And what is black-mail ? 

A sort of protection-money that Low-country gentlemen, 
lying near the Highlands, pay to some Highland chief, that 
he may neither do them harm himself, nor suffer it to be 
done to them by others ; and then if your cattle are stolen, 
you have only to send him word, and he will recover them ; 
or it may be, he will drive away cows from some distant place. 


A LETTER — A HIGHLANDERS’ FORAY. 


81 


where he has a quarrel, and give them to you to make up 
your loss.’^ 

And is this sort of Highland Jonathan Wild’ admitted 
into society, and called a gentleman ? 

So much so,’^ said Eose, ^^that the quarrel between my 
father and Fergus Mac-Ivor began at a county meeting, where 
he wanted to take precedence of all the Lowland gentlemen 
then present, only my father would not suffer it. And then 
he upbraided my father that he paid him tribute ; and my 
father was in a towering passion, for Bailie Macwheeble, who 
manages such things his own way, had contrived to keep this 
black -mail a secret from him, and passed it in his account 
for cess-money. 2 And they would have fought ; but Fergus 
Mac-Ivor said, very gallantly, he would never raise his hand 
against a grey head that was so much respected as my 
father’s. — Oh, I wish, I wish they had continued friends ! ” 

And did you ever see this Mr. Mac-Ivor, if that be his 
name. Miss Bradwardine ? ” 

‘^No, that is not his name ; and he would consider master 
as a sort of affront, only that you are an Englishman, and 
know no better. But the Lowlanders call him, like other gen- 
tlemen, by the name of his estate, Gilennaquoich ; and the 
Highlanders call him Vich Ian Vohr, that is, the son of John 
the Great.” 

I am afraid I shall never bring my English tongue to call 
him by either one or other.” 

But he is a very polite, handsome man,” continued Eose ; 
“and his sister Flora is one of the most beautiful and accom- 
plished young ladies in this country ; she was bred, in a con- 
vent in France, and was a great friend of mine before this 
unhappy dispute. Dear Captain Waverley, try your influence 
with my father to make matters up. I am sure this is but the 
beginning of our troubles. When I was a girl about ten, 


* Jonathan Wild was a thief-catcher, who was at length hanged for breaking into a 
house. ** tax-money. 


82 


WAVERLEY. 


there was a skirmish fought between a party of twenty of 
them and my father and his servants behind the mains ; and 
the bullets broke several panes in the north windows, they 
were so near. Three of the Highlanders were killed, and 
they brought them in wrapped in their plaids, and laid them 
on the stone floor of the hall ; and next morning, their wives 
and daughters came, clapping their hands, and crying the 
coronach,^ and shrieking, and carried away the dead bodies, 
with the pipes “ playing before them. I could not sleep for 
six weeks without starting and thinking I heard these terrible 
cries, and saw the bodies lying on the steps, all stiff and 
swathed up their bloody tartans/^ 

Waverley could not help starting at a story which bore so 
much resemblance to one of his own day-dreams. Here was 
a girl scarce seventeen, the gentlest of her sex, both in 
temper and appearance, who had witnessed with her own 
eyes such a scene as he had used to conjure up in his imagi- 
nation as only occurring in ancient times, and spoke of it 
coolly, as one very likely to recur. He felt at once the im- 
pulse of curiosity, and that slight sense of danger which only 
serves to heighten its interest. 

The whole circumstances now detailed concerning the state 
of the country seemed equally novel and extraordinary. He 
had indeed often heard of Highland thieves, but had no idea 
of the systematic mode in which their depredations were con- 
ducted ; and that the practice was connived at, and even en- 
couraged, by many of the Highland chieftains, who not only 
found the creaghs, or forays, useful for the purpose of train- 
ing individuals of their clan to the practice of arms, but also 
of maintaining a wholesome terror among their Lowland 
neighbours, and levying, as we have seen, a tribute from 
them, under colour of protection-money. 

It seemed like a dream to Waverley that these deeds of 
violence should be familiar to men^s minds, and happening 

* dirge. 2 ^ bagpipes. 


AN UNEXPECTED ALLY APPEARS. 


33 


daily in the immediate vicinity, without his having crossed 
the seas, and while he was yet in the otherwise well-ordered 
island of Great Britain. 


CHAPTER IX. 

AN UNEXPECTED ALLY APPEARS. 

The Baron returned at the dinner hour, and had in a great 
measure recovered his composure and good-humour. He 
not only confirmed the stories which Edward had heard from 
Rose and Bailie Macwheehle, but added many anecdotes 
from his own experience, concerning the state of the High- 
lands and their inhabitants. 

He went on to state so many curious particulars concerning 
the manners, customs, and habits of this patriarchal race that 
Edward^s curiosity became highly interested, and he inquired 
whether it was possible to make with safety an excursion 
into the neighbouring Highlands, whose dusky barrier of 
mountains had already excited his wish to penetrate beyond 
them. The Baron assured his guest that nothing would be 
more easy, providing this quarrel were first made up, since he 
could himself give him letters to many of the distinguished 
chiefs, who would receive him with the utmost courtesy and 
hospitality. 

While they were on this topic, the door suddenly opened, 
and a Highlander, fully armed and equipped, entered the 
apartment. Had it not been that neither Mr. Bradwardine 
nor Rose exhibited any emotion, Edward would certainly have 
thought the intrusion hostile. As it was, he started at the 
sight of what he had not yet happened to see, a mountaineer, 
in his full national costume. The individual Gael was a 
stout, dark, young man, of low stature, the ample folds of 
whose plaid added to the appearance of strength which his 
3 


34 


WAVERLEY. 


person exhibited. The short kilt, or petticoat, showed his 
sinewy and clean-made limbs ; his bonnet had a short feather, 
which indicated his claim to be treated as a duinhe-wassel, 
or sort of gentleman ; a broadsword dangled by his side, a 
target hung upon his shoulder, and a long Spanish fowling- 
piece occupied one of his hands. With the other hand he 
pulled off his bonnet, and the Baron immediately said, with 
an air of dignity, but without rising, and much, as Edward 
thought, in the manner of a prince receiving an embassy : 

Welcome, Evan Dhu Maccombich ; what news from Fergus 
Mac-Ivor Vich Ian Vohr 

Fergus Mac-Ivor Vich Ian Vohr,^^ said the ambassador, in 
good English, greets you well, Baron of Brad war dine and 
Tully-Veolan, and is sorry there has been a thick cloud inter- 
posed between you and him, which has kept you from seeing 
and considering the friendship that has been between your 
houses and forebears of old ; and he prays you that the cloud 
may pass away, and that things may be as they have been 
heretofore between the clan Ivor and the house of Bradward- 
ine, when there was an egg between them for a flint and a 
knife for a sword. 

To this the Baron of Bradwardine answered with suitable 
dignity, that he knew the chief of clan Ivor to be a well- 
wisher to the King, and he was sorry there should have been 
a cloud between him and any gentleman of such sound prin- 
ciples, for when folks are banding together, feeble is he who 
hath no brother.” 

This appearing perfectly satisfactory, that the peace be- 
tween these august persons might be duly solemnised, the 
Baron, Ailing a glass, drank to the health and prosperity of 
Mac-Ivor of Glennaquoich ; upon which the Celtic ambas- 
sador, to requite his politeness, turned down a mighty 
bumper seasoned with his good wishes to the house of Brad- 
wardine. 

Having thus ratifled the preliminaries of the general treaty. 


AN UNEXPECTED ALLY APPEAKS. 


35 


the envoy retired to adjust with Mr. Macwheeble some sub- 
ordinate articles with which it was not thought necessary to 
trouble the Baron. These probably referred to the discon- 
tinuance of the subsidy. Evan Dhu Maccombich thereupon 
declared his intention to set off immediately in pursuit of 
the cattle, which he pronounced to be ^^no that far off; 
they have broken the bone,” he observed, ^^but they have had 
no time to suck the marrow.” 

Our hero, who had attended Evan Dhu during his perquisi- 
tions, was much struck with the ingenuity which he displayed 
in collecting information, and the precise and pointed conclu- 
sions which he drew from it. Evan Dhu, on his part, was 
obviously flattered with the attention of Waverley, and his 
curiosity about the customs and scenery of the Highlands. 
He invited Edward to accompany him on a short walk of ten 
or fifteen miles into the mountains, and see the place where 
the cattle were conveyed to ; adding, If it be as I suppose, 
you never saw such a place in your life, nor ever will, unless 
you go with me or the like of me.” 

Our hero, feeling his curiosity considerably excited by the 
idea of visiting the den of a Highland Cacus,^ took, however, 
the precaution to inquire if his guide might be trusted. He 
was assured that the invitation would on no account have been 
given had there been the least danger, and that all he had 
to apprehend was a little fatigue. A knapsack, with a few 
necessaries, being bound on the shoulders of a deputy game- 
keeper, our hero set forth with a fowling-piece in his hand, 
accompanied by his new friend Evan Dhu, and followed by 
the gamekeeper aforesaid, and by two wild Highlanders, the 
attendants of Evan, one of whom had upon his shoulder a 
hatchet at the end of a pole, called a Lochaber-axe, and the 
other a long ducking-gun. Evan, upon Edward^s inquiry, gave 
him to understand that this martial escort was by no means 

> Cacus, in Roman mythology, was a giant, son of Vulcan. He drove off cattle which 
Hercules had. 


86 


WAVERLEY. 


necessary as a guard, but merely, as be said, drawing up and 
adjusting his plaid with an air of dignity, that he might 
appear decently at Tully-Veolan, and as Vich Ian Vohr’s 
foster-brother ought to do. 

It was towards evening as they entered one of the tremen- 
dous passes which afford communication between the high 
and low country ; the path, which was extremely steep and 
rugged, winded up a chasm between two tremendous rocks, 
following the passage which a foaming stream, that brawled 
far below, appeared to have worn for itself in the course of 
ages. The descent from the path to the stream was a mere 
precipice, with here and there a projecting fragment of 
granite, or a scathed tree, which had warped its twisted roots 
into the fissures of the rock. On the right hand, the moun- 
tain rose above the path with almost equal inaccessibility ; 
but the hill on the opposite side displayed a shroud of copse- 
wood, with which some pines were intermingled. 

This,” said Evan, is the pass of Ballybrough, which was 
kept in former times by ten of the clan Donnochie against 
a hundred of the Low Country carles.^ The graves of the 
slain are still to be seen in that little corrie, or bottom, on 
the opposite side of the burn ; if your eyes are good, you 
.may see the green specks among the heather.” 

The pass issued in a narrow glen, between two mountains, 
both very lofty and covered with heath. The brook con- 
tinued to be their companion, and they advanced up its 
mazes, crossing them now and then, on which occasions Evan 
Dhu uniformly offered the assistance of his attendants to carry 
over Edward ; but our hero, who had been always a tolerable 
pedestrian, declined the accommodation, and obviously rose 
in his guide^s opinion, by showing that he did not fear wetting 
his feet. 

Through the gorge of this glen they found access to a black 
bog, of tremendous extent, full of large pit-holes, which they 

1 churls, fellows. 


AN UNEXPECTED ALLY APPEARS. 


87 


traversed with great difficulty and some danger, by tracks 
which no one but a Highlander could have followed. Some- 
times the ground was so completely unsafe that it was neces- 
sary to spring from one hillock to another, the space between 
being incapable of bearing the human weight. Edward began 
to find the exercise, to which he was unaccustomed, more 
fatiguing than he expected. The lingering twilight served 
to show them through this Serbonian ^ bog, but deserted them 
almost totally at the bottom of a steep and very stony hill, 
which it was the travellers^ next toilsome task to ascend. The 
night, however, was pleasant, and not dark ; and Waverley, 
calling up mental energy to support personal fatigue, held 
on his march gallantly, though envying in his heart his 
Highland attendants, who continued, without a symptom of 
abated vigour, the rapid and swinging pace, or rather trot, 
which, according to his computation, had already brought 
them fifteen miles upon their journey. 

After crossing this mountain and descending on the other 
side towards a thick wood, Evan Dhu held some conference 
with his Highland attendants, in consequence of which Ed- 
wards’s baggage was shifted from the shoulders of the game- 
keeper to those of one of the gillies, and the former was sent 
off with the other mountaineer in a direction different from 
that of the three remaining travellers. On asking the mean- 
ing of this separation, Waverley was told that theLowlander 
must go to a hamlet about three miles off for the night ; for 
Donald Bean Lean, the worthy person whom they supposed 
to be possessed of the cattle, did not much approve of 
strangers approaching his retreat. This seemed reasonable, 
and silenced a qualm of suspicion which came across Edward^s 
mind when he saw himself, at such a place and such an hour, 
deprived of his only Lowland companion. And Evan imme- 
diately afterwards added, that indeed he himself had better 

1 i.e., deceptive. The name is derived from Lake Serbonis in Egypt, which, because 
of the sand blowing into it, gave the appearance, but not the reality, of solid ground. 


38 


WAVERLEY. 


get forward, and announce their approach to Donald Bean 
Lean, as the arrival of a sidier roy (red soldier) might other- 
wise be a disagreeable surprise/^ And without waiting for 
an answer, putting himself to a very round pace, was out of 
sight in an instant. 

Waverley was now left to his own meditations, for his 
attendant with the battle-axe spoke very little English. 
They were traversing a thick, and, as it seemed, an endless 
wood of pines, and consequently the path was altogether in- 
discernible in the murky darkness which surrounded them. 
The Highlander, however, seemed to trace it by instinct, 
without the hesitation of a moment, and Edward followed 
his footsteps as close as he could. 

After journeying a considerable time in silence, he could 
not help asking, ^MVas it far to the end of their journey 
Ta cove was tree, four mile ; but as duinhe-wassel ^ was 
a wee taiglit,® Donald could, tat is, might — would — should 
send ta curragh.-’"’ ® 

This conveyed no information. The curragh which was 
promised might be a man, a horse, a cart, or chaise; and no 
more could be got from the man with the battle-axe hut a 
repetition of Aich ay! ta curragh. 

But in a short time Edward began to conceive his meaning, 
when, issuing from the wood, he found himself on the banks 
of a large river or lake, where his conductor gave him to un- 
derstand they must sit down for a little while. The moon, 
which now began to rise, showed obscurely the expanse of 
water which spread before them, and the shapeless and in- 
distinct forms of mountains with which it seemed to be sur- 
rounded. The cool and yet mild air of the summer night 
refreshed Waverley after his rapid and toilsome walk ; and 
the perfume which it wafted from the birch trees, bathed in 
the evening dew, was exquisitely fragrant. 

He had now time to give himself up to the full romance 

1 gentleman. a weary. s boat. 


THE HOLD OF A HIGHLAND ROBBER. 


39 


of his situation. Here he sate on the banks of an unknown 
lake, under the guidance of a wild native, whose language 
was unknown to him, on a visit to the den of some renowned 
outlaw, a second Robin Hood, perhaps, and that at deep 
midnight, through scenes of difficulty and toil, separated 
from his attendant, left by his guide. What a vari 



incidents for the exercise of a romantic imagination ! 

While wrapt in these dreams of imagination, his compan- 
ion gently touched him, and, pointing in a direction nearly 
straight across the lake, said, Yon^s ta cove.'’^ A small 
point of light was seen to twinkle in the direction in which 
he pointed, and, gradually increasing in size and lustre, 
seemed to flicker like a meteor upon the verge of the horizon. 
While Edward watched this phenomenon, the distant dash 
of oars was heard. The measured sound approached near 
and more near, and presently a loud whistle was heard in the 
same direction. His friend with the battle-axe immediately 
whistled clear and shrill, in reply to the signal, and a boat, 
manned with four or flve Highlanders, pushed for a little 
inlet, near which Edward was sitting. He advanced to meet 
them with his attendant, was immediately assisted into the 
boat by the officious attention of two stout mountaineers, 
and had no sooner seated himself than they resumed their 
oars, and began to row across the lake with great rapidity. 


CHAPTER X. 


THE HOLD OF A HIGHLAND ROBBER, 


The party preserved silence, interrupted only by the mo- 
notonous and murmured chant of a Gaelic song, sung in a 
kind of low recitative by the steersman, and by the dash of 
the oars, which the notes seemed to regulate, as they dipped 
to them in cadence. The light, which they now approached 


40 


WAVERLEY. 


more nearly, assumed a broader, redder, and more irregular 
splendour. 

The boat now neared the shore, and Edward could discover 
that a large fire, amply supplied with branches of pine-wood 
by two figures, who, in the red reflection of its light, appeared 
like demons, was kindled in the jaws of a lofty cavern; and 
he conjectured that the fire had been lighted as a beacon to 
the boatmen on their return. They rowed right for the 
mouth of the cave, and then, shipping their oars, permitted 
the boat to enter in obedience to the impulse which it had 
received. At this moment a quantity of water was suddenly 
flung upon the fire, which sunk with a hissing noise, and 
with it disappeared the light it had hitherto afforded. Four 
or five active arms ‘lifted Waverley out of the boat, placed 
him on his feet, and almost carried him into the recesses of 
the cave. He made a few paces in darkness, guided in this 
manner ; and advancing towards a hum of voices, which 
seemed to sound from the centre of the rock, at an acute 
turn Donald Bean Lean and his whole establishment were 
before his eyes. 

The interior of the cave, which here rose very high, was 
illuminated by torches made of pine-tree, w'hich emitted a 
bright and bickering light, attended by a strong though not 
unpleasant odour. Their light was assisted by the red glare 
of a large charcoal fire, round which were seated five or 
six armed Highlanders, while others were indistinctly seen 
couched on their plaids in the more remote recesses of the 
cavern. The principal inhabitant of this singular mansion, 
attended by Evan Dhu as master of the ceremonies, came 
forward to meet his guest, totally different in appearance 
and manner from what his imagination had anticipated. 
Waverley prepared himself to meet a stern, gigantic, fero- 
cious figure. 

Donald Bean Lean was the very reverse of all this. He 
was thin in person and low in stature, with light, sandy- 


THE HOLD OF A HIGHLAND ROBBER. 


41 


coloured hair and small, pale features, from which he derived 
his agnomen of Bean, or white ; and although his form was 
light, well-proportioned, and active, he appeared, on the 
whole, rather a diminutive and insignificant figure. The 
robber received Captain Waverley with a profusion of French 
politeness and Scottish hospitality, seemed perfectly to know 
his name and connexions, and to be particularly acquainted 
with his uncle^s political principles. 

Being placed at a convenient distance from the charcoal 
fire, the heat of which the season rendered oppressive, a 
strapping Highland damsel placed before Waverley, Evan, 
and Donald Bean three cogues, or wooden vessels composed 
of staves and hoops, containing eanaruich, a sort of strong 
soup, made out of a particular part of the inside of the 
beeves. After this refreshment, steaks, roasted on the coals, 
were supplied in liberal abundance, and disappeared before 
Evan Dhu and their host with a promptitude that seemed 
like magic. The whisky came forth in abundance to crown 
the cheer. The Highlanders drank it copiously and un- 
diluted ; but Edward, having mixed a little with water, did 
not find it so palatable -as to invite him to repeat the dFaught.^S»- 
Their host bewailed himself exceedingly that he could offer 
him no wine : Had he but known four-and-twenty hours 
before, he would have had some, had it been within the circle 
of forty miles round him. But no gentleman could do more 
to show his sense of the honour of a visit from another than 
to offer him the best cheer his house afforded. Where there 
are no bushes there can be no nuts, and the way of those 
you live with is that you must follow.” 

From this discourse he passed to the political and military 
state of the country ; and Waverley was astonished, and even 
alarmed, to find a person of this description so accurately 
acquainted with the strength of the various garrisons and 
regiments quartered north of the Tay. He even mentioned 
the exact number of recruits who had joined Waverley's 


42 


WAVERLEY. 


troop from his undoes estate, and observed they were pretty 
men, meaning, not handsome, but stout, warlike fellows. 
Evan Dhu having by this time retired from the conversation, 
and wrapped himself up in his plaid to take some repose, 
Donald asked Edward, in a very significant manner, whether 
he had nothing particular to say to him. 

Waverley, surprised and somewhat startled at this ques- 
tion from such a character, answered, he had no motive in 
visiting him but curiosity to see his extraordinary place of 
residence. Donald Bean Lean looked him steadily in the 
face for an instant, and then said, with a significant nod, 

You might as well have confided in me ; I am as much 
worthy of trust as either the Baron of Bradwardine or Vich 
Ian Vohr. But you are equally welcome to my house. 

Waverley felt an involuntary shudder creep over him at 
the mysterious language held by this outlawed and lawless 
bandit, which, in spite of his attempts to master it, deprived 
him of the power to ask the meaning of his insinuations. A 
heath pallet, with the fiowers stuck uppermost, had been 
prepared for him in a recess of the cave, and here, covered 
with such spare plaids as could be mustered, he lay for some 
time watching the motions of the other inhabitants of the 
cavern. 

At length the fiuctuating groups began to swim before the 
eyes of our hero as they gradually closed ; nor did he reopen 
them till the morning sun was high on the lake without. 


CHAPTER XL 

WAVERLEY PROCEEDS ON" HIS JOURNEY. 

When Edward had collected his scattered recollection, he 
was surprised to observe the cavern totally deserted. If it 
had not been for the decayed brands of the fire, now sunk 


WAVERLEY PROCEEDS ON HIS JOURNEY. 


43 


into grey ashes, and the remnants of the festival, consisting 
of bones half burned and half gnawed, and an empty keg 
or two, there remained no traces of Donald and his band. 
When Waverley sallied forth to the entrance of the cave, he 
perceived that the point of rock, on which remained the 
marks of last night^s beacon, was accessible by a small path, 
either natural or roughly hewn in the rock, along the little 
inlet of water which ran a few yards up into the cavern, 
where, as in a wet-dock, the skiff which brought him there 
the night before was still lying moored. 

He next looked around for Evan Dhu and his attendant, 
who, he rightly judged, would be at no great distance. At 
the distance of about half a mile, he beheld a Highlander 
(Evan apparently) angling in the lake, with another attend- 
ing him, whom, from the weapon which he shouldered, he 
recognised for his friend with the battle-axe. 

Much nearer to the mouth of the cave he heard the notes 
of a lively Gaelic song, guided by which, in a sunny recess, 
shaded by a glittering birch tree, and carpeted with a bank 
of firm white sand, he found the damsel of the cavern, Alice, 
the daughter of Donaid Bean, whose lay had already reached 
him, busy, to the best of her power, in arranging to advan- 
tage a morning repast of milk, eggs, barley-bread, fresh 
butter, and honeycomb. 

Evan and his attendant now returned slowly along the 
beach, the latter bearing a large salmon-trout, the produce 
of the morning’s sport. After morning greetings had passed 
on both sides, and Evan, looking at Waverley, had said 
something in Gaelic to Alice, which made her laugh, yet 
colour up to her eyes, through a complexion well embrowned 
by sun and wind, Evan intimated his commands that the fish 
should be prepared for breakfast. 

Breakfast over, he prepared to move towards the boat, in- 
viting Waverley to attend him. 

They now again entered the gorge of the cavern, and step- 


44 


WAVERLEY. 


ping into the boat, the Highlander pushed off, and, taking 
advantage of the morning breeze, hoisted a clumsy sort of 
sail. As they glided along the silver mirror, Evan opened 
the conversation with a panegyric upon Alice. 

Oich ! said he, there is nothing in Perthshire that 
she need want, if she ask her father to fetch it, unless it be 
too hot or too heavy. 

^^But to be the daughter of a cattle-stealer ! — a common 
thief ! 

Common thief ! — no such thing : Donald Bean Lean 
never lifted less than a drove in his life.’’^ 

Do you call him an uncommon thief, then 

^^No ; he that steals a cow from a poor widow is a thief ; 
he that lifts a drove from a Sassenach^ laird is a gentleman- 
drover.” 

^^But what can this end in, were he taken in such an 
appropriation ?” 

^^To be sure he would die for the law, as many a pretty 
man has done before him.” 

Die for the law !” 

Ay ; be strapped up on the kind gallows of Crieff, where 
his father died, and his good sire died, and where I hope 
he^ll live to die himself, if he^s not shot, or slashed, in a 
creagh.” “ 

You hope such a death for your friend, Evan ? ” 

And that do I e^en ; would you have me wish him to die 
on a bundle of wet straw in yon den of his, like a mangy 
tyke ? ” ® 

But what becomes of Alice, then ? ” 

“ Troth, if such an accident were to happen, as her father 
would not need her help ony langer, I ken nought to hinder 
me to marry her mysell.” 

Gallantly resolved,” said Edward; ^^but, in the mean- 
while, Evan, what has your father-in-law (that shall be, if 

» Saxon, English. a foray. s dog. 


WAVERLEY PROCEEDS ON HIS JOURNEY. 


45 


he have the good fortune to be hanged) done with the Barones 
cattle ? ” 

Oich/' answered Evan, they were all trudging before 
your lad and Allan Kennedy before the sun blinked ower 
Ben Lawers this morning ; and theyll be in the pass of Bally- 
brough by this time, in their way back to the parks of Tully- 
Veolan, all but two, that were unhappily slaughtered before I 
got last night to Eaimh an Ri/^ 

And where are we going, Evan, if I may be so bold as to 
ask ?” said Waverley. 

Where would you be ganging, but to the Laird’s ain 
house of Glennaquoich ? ” 

In about half an hour they reached the upper end of the 
lake, where, after landing Waverley, the two Highlanders 
drew the boat into a littlo creek among thick flags and reeds, 
where it lay perfectly concealed. 

The travellers followed for some time a delightful opening 
into the hills, down which a little brook found its way to the 
lake. At length, after having marched over bank and brae,* 
moss and heather, Edward, though not unacquainted with 
the Scottish liberality in computing distance, began to think 
that Evan’s five miles were nearly doubled. 

But now the report of a gun was heard, and a sportsman 
was seen, with his dogs and attendant, at the upper end of 
the glen. 

^‘Shough,” said Dugald Mahony, ^^tat’s ta Chief.” 

It is not,” said Evan, imperiously. Do you think he 
would come to meet a Sassenach duinhe-wassel in such a 
way as that ? ” 

But as they approached a little nearer, he said, with an 
appearance of mortification, ^^And it is even he, sure enough; 
and he has not his tail® on after all; there is no living creature 
with him but Callum Beg.” 

In fact, Fergus Mac-Ivor had no idea of raising himself in 

I hill. a English gentleman. 3 has no retinue. 


46 


WAVERLEY. 


the eyes of an English young man of fortune by appearing 
with a retinue of idle Highlanders disproportioned to the 
occasion. Therefore, although, had he been to receive a 
brother chieftain, he would probably have been attended by 
all that retinue which Evan described with so much unction, 
he judged it more respectable to advance to meet Waverley 
with a single attendant, a very handsome Highland boy, who 
carried his master’s shooting-pouch and his broadsword, with- 
out which he seldom went abroad. 

When Fergus and Waverley met, the latter was struck with 
the peculiar grace and dignity of the chieftain’s figure. 
Above the middle size and finely proportioned, the Highland 
dress, which he wore in its simplest mode, set off his person 
to great advantage. 

The Chief received Edward as a friend of the Baron of 
Bradwardine, with the utmost expression of kindness and 
obligation for the visit ; upbraided him gently with choosing 
so rude an abode as he had done the night before ; and en- 
tered into a lively conversation with him about Donald Bean’s 
housekeeping, but without the least hint as to his predatory 
habits, or the immediate occasion of Waverley’s visit, a topic 
which, as the Chief did not introduce it, our hero also avoided. 
While they walked merrily on towards the house of Glenna- 
quoich, Evan, who now fell respectfully into the rear, fol- 
lowed with Callum Beg and Dugald Mahony. 


CHAPTER XII. 

THE CHIEF AND HIS MANSION. 

Had Fergus lived Sixty Years sooner than he did, he would 
in all probability have wanted the polished manner and 
knowledge of the world which he now possessed; and had he 
lived Sixty Years later, his ambition and love of rule would 


THE CHIEF AND HIS MANSION. 


47 


have lacked the fuel which his situation now afforded. His 
own patriarchal power he strengthened at every expense 
which his fortune would permit, and indeed stretched his 
means to the uttermost to maintain the rude and plentiful 
hospitality which was the most valued attribute of a chief- 
tain. For the same reason he crowded his estate with a ten- 
antry, hardy indeed, and fit for the purposes of war, but greatly 
outnumbering what the soil was calculated to maintain. 

In following this course of conduct, Fergus had a further 
object than merely being the great man of his neighbourhood, 
and ruling despotically over a small clan. From his infancy 
upward he had devoted himself to the cause of the exiled 
family of Stuart, and had persuaded himself, not only that 
their restoration to the crown of Britain would be speedy, 
but that those who assisted them would be raised to honour 
and rank. It was with this view that he augmented his 
own force to the utmost, to be prepared for the first favour- 
able opportunity of rising. With this purpose also he concil- 
iated the favour of such Lowland gentlemen in the vicinity 
as were friends to the good cause ; and for the same reason, 
having incautiously quarrelled with Mr. Bradwardine, who, 
notwithstanding his peculiarities, was much respected in the 
country, he took advantage of the foray of Donald Bean 
Lean to solder up the dispute in the manner we have men- 
tioned. Some, indeed, surmised that he caused the enterprise 
to be suggested to Donald, on purpose to pave the way to a 
reconciliation, which, supposing that to be the case, cost the 
Laird of Bradwardine two good milch-cows. 

The chief and his guest had by this time reached the house 
of Glennaquoich, which consisted of a high, rude-looking 
square tower, with the addition of a lofted house, that is, a 
building of two stories, constructed by Fergus's grandfather. 

Before the gate were about a hundred Highlanders, in 
complete dresS and arms ; at sight of whom the Chieftain 
apologised to Waverley in a sort of negligent manner. He 


48 


WAVERLEY. 


had forgot/^ he said, ^^that he had ordered a few of his clan 
out, for the purpose of seeing that they were in a fit condition 
to protect the country, and prevent such accidents as, he was 
sorry to learn, had befallen the Baron of Bradwardine. Be- 
fore they were dismissed, perhaps Captain Waverley might 
choose to see them go through a part of their exercise.” 

Edward assented, and the men executed with agility and 
precision some of the ordinary military movements. They 
then practised individually at a mark, and showed extraor- 
dinary dexterity in the management of the pistol and firelock. 
They took aim, standing, sitting, leaning, or lying prostrate, 
as they were commanded, and always with effect upon the 
target. Next, they paired off for the broadsword exercise ; 
and, having manifested their individual skill and dexterity, 
united in two bodies, and exhibited a sort of mock encounter, 
in which the charge, the rally, the flight, the pursuit, and all 
the current of a heady fight, were exhibited to the sound of 
the great war bagpipe. 

And what number of such gallant fellows have the hap- 
piness to call you leader?” asked Waverley. 

In a good cause, and under a chieftain whom they loved, 
the race of Ivor have seldom taken the field under five hun- 
dred claymores. But you are aware. Captain Waverley, that 
the disarming act, passed about twenty years ago, prevents 
their being in the complete state of preparation as in former 
times ; and I keep no more of my clan under arms than may 
defend my own or my friends^ property.” 

But, with your force, you might soon destroy or put down 
such gangs as that of Donald Bean Lean.” 

Yes, doubtless ; and my reward would be a summons to 
deliver up to General Blakeney, at Stirling, the few broad- 
swords they have left us ; there were little policy in that, 
methinks. But come, captain, the sound of the pipes informs 
me that dinner is prepared. Let me have the honour to show 
you into my rude mansion.” 


A HIGHLAND FEAST. 


49 


CHAPTER XIII. 

A HIGHLAND FEAST. 

Ere Waverley entered the banqueting hall, he was offered 
the patriarchal refreshment of a bath for the feet, which the 
sultry weather, and the morasses he had traversed, rendered 
highly acceptable. 

The hall, in which the feast was prepared, occupied all the 
first story of the original erection, and a huge oaken table 
extended through its whole length. The apparatus for dinner 
was simple, even to rudeness, and the company numerous, 
even to crowding. At the head of the table was the Chief 
himself, with Edward, and two or three Highland visitors of 
neighbouring clans ; the elders of his own tribe sat next in 
rank ; beneath them, their sons and nephews and foster- 
brethren ; then the officers of the Chiefs household, accord- 
ing to their order; and lowest of all, the tenants who actually 
cultivated the ground. Even beyond this long perspective, 
Edward might see upon the green, to which a huge pair of 
folding doors opened, a multitude of Highlanders of a yet 
inferior description, who, nevertheless, were considered as 
guests, and had their share both of the countenance of the 
entertainer and of the cheer of the day. 

This hospitality, apparently unbounded, had yet its line 
of economy. Some pains had been bestowed in dressing the 
dishes of fish, game, etc., which were at the upper end of the 
table, and immediately under the eye of the English stranger. 
Lower down stood immense clumsy joints of mutton and beef. 
But the central dish was a yearling lamb, roasted whole. It 
was set upon its legs, with a bunch of parsley in its mouth, 
and was probably exhibited in that form to gratify the pride 
of the cook, who piqued himself more on the plenty than the 
elegance of his master^s table. 

4 


50 


WAVERLEY. 


The bagpipers, three in number, screamed, during the 
whole time of dinner, a tremendous war-tune ; and the echo- 
ing of the vaulted roof, and clang of the Celtic tongue, pro- 
duced such a Babel of noises that Waverley dreaded his ears 
^would never recover it. 

At length Mac-Ivor, turning to the company, proposed the 

Health of Captain Waverley, a worthy friend of his kind 
neighbour and ally, the Baron of Bradwardine.^'’ 

This ceremony being requited in kind, the Chieftain made 
a signal for the pipes to cease, and said aloud, Where is 
the song hidden, my friends, that Mac-Murrough cannot 
find it?^^ 

Mac-Murrough, the family bhairdli,^ an aged man, imme- 
diately took the hint, and began to chant, with low and rapid 
utterance, a profusion of Celtic verses, which were received 
by the audience with all the applause of enthusiasm. As he 
advanced in his declamation, his ardour seemed to increase. 
He had at first spoken with his eyes fixed on the ground ; he 
now cast them around as if beseeching, and anon as if com- 
manding, attention, and his tones rose into wild and impas- 
sioned notes, accompanied with appropriate gestures. He 
seemed to Edward, who attended to him with much interest, 
to recite many proper names, to lament the dead, to apostro- 
phise the absent, to exhort, and entreat, and animate those 
who were present. The ardour of the poet appeared to com- 
municate itself to the audience. Their wild and sunburnt 
countenances assumed a fiercer and more animated expres- 
sion ; all bent forward towards the reciter, many sprung up 
and waved their arms in ecstasy, and some laid their hands 
on their swords. When the song ceased, there . was a deep 
pause, while the aroused feelings of the poet and of the 
hearers gradually subsided into their usual channel. 

The Chieftain, who during this scene had appeared rather 
to watch the emotions which were excited than to partake 


1 minstrel. 


THE chieftain’s SISTER. 


51 


their high tone of enthusiasm, filled with claret a small sil» 
ver cup which stood by him. Grive this/^ he said to an 
attendant, ^‘^to Mac-Murrough nan Fonn (z.e., of the songs), 
and, when he has drank the juice, bid him keep, for the sake 
of Vich Ian Vohr, the shell of the gourd whi-ch contained 
it.'’^ The gift was received by Mac-Murrough with profound 
gratitude ; he drank the wine, and, kissing the cup, shrouded 
it with reverence in the plaid which was folded on his bosom. 

Edward was particularly solicitous to know the meaning of 
that song which appeared to produce such effect upon the 
passions of the company, and hinted his curiosity to his host. 

As I observe, said the Chieftain, that you have passed 
the bottle during the last three rounds, I was about to pro- 
pose to you to retire to my sisteFs tea-table, who can explain 
these things to you better than I can.^^ 

Edward readily assented to this proposal, and the Chief- 
tain, saying a few words to those around him, left the table, 
followed by Waverley. 


CHAPTER XIV. 

THE CHIEFTAIN^S SISTEE. 

The drawing-room of Flora Mac-Ivor was furnished in the 
plainest and most simple manner. But there was no appear- 
ance of this parsimony in the dress of the lady herself, which 
was in texture elegant, and even rich, and arranged in a 
manner which partook partly of the Parisian fashion and 
partly of the more simple dress of the Highlands, blended 
together with great taste. 

She bore a most striking resemblance to her brother Fergus. 
They had the same antique and regular correctness of profile *, 
the same dark eyes, eyelashes, and eyebrows ; the same 
clearness of complexion, excepting that Fergus's was em- 


52 


WAVERLEY. 


browned by exercise and Florals possessed tbe utmost feminine 
delicacy. But the haughty and somewhat stern regularity 
of Fergus’s features was beautifully softened in those of 
Flora. The eager glance of the keen black eye, which, in 
the Chieftain,- seemed impatient even of the material obstacles 
it encountered, had in his sister acquired a gentle pensive- 
ness. His looks seemed to seek glory, power, all that could 
exalt him above others in the race of humanity ; while those 
of his sister, as if she were already conscious of mental superi- 
ority, seemed to pity, rather than envy, those who were 
struggling for any further distinction. Her sentiments cor- 
responded with the expression of her countenance. Early 
education had impressed upon her mind, as well as on that 
of the Chieftain, the most devoted attachment to the exiled 
family of Stuart. She believed it the duty of her brother, 
of his clan, of every man in Britain, at whatever personal 
hazard, to contribute to that restoration which the partisans 
of the Chevalier St. Ceorge * had not ceased to hope for. 
For this she was prepared to do all, to suffer all, to sacrifice 
all. 

From situation as well as choice, Miss Mac-Ivor’s society 
was extremely limited. Her most intimate friend had been 
Kose Bradwardine. It was generally believed, though no 
one durst have hinted it to the Baron of Bradwardine, that 
Flora’s entreaties had no small share in allaying the wrath of 
Fergus upon the occasion of their quarrel. 

To this young lady, now presiding at the female empire of 
the tea-table, Fergus introduced Captain Waverley, whom 
she received with the usual forms of politeness. 

When the first salutations had passed, Fergus said to 
his sister : My dear Flora, I must tell you that Captain 
Waverley is a worshipper of the Celtic muse, not the less 
so perhaps that he does not understand a word of her lan- 
guage. Now do you two talk of bards and poetry, if not of 

* See Historical Sketch in the Introduction. 


THE CHIEFTAIN S SISTER. 


63 


purses and claymores, while I return to do the final honours 
to the senators of the tribe of Ivor.” So saying, he left the 
room. 

The conversation continued between Flora and Waverley ; 
for two well-dressed young women, whose character seemed 
to hover between that of companions and dependants, took 
no share in it. 

^‘The recitation,” she said, ^^of poems, recording the 
feasts of the heroes, the complaints of lovers, and the wars 
of contending tribes, forms the chief amusement of a winter 
fireside in the Highlands. Some of these are said to be very 
ancient, and if they are ever translated into any of the lan- 
guages of civilised Europe, cannot fail to produce a deep and 
general sensation.” 

And am I wrong in conjecturing,” asked Edward, ^^that 
there was some allusion to me in the verses which Mac- 
Murrough recited ? ” 

You have a quick observation. Captain Waverley, which 
in this instance has not deceived you.” 

I would give my best horse to know what the Highland 
bard could find to say of such an unworthy Southron as my- 
self.” 

^‘^It shall not even cost you a lock of his mane.” She 
spoke a few words to one of the young girls in attend- 
ance, who instantly curtsied and tripped out of the room. 

She returned in a few minutes, and repeated to her mis- 
tress a few lines in Caelic. Flora seemed to think for a mo- 
ment, and then, slightly colouring, she turned to Waverley. 

If you will give me a few moments for consideration, I will 
endeavour to engraft the meaning of these lines upon a rude 
English translation. Una will show you the way to one of 
my favourite haunts, and Cathleen and I will join you there, 
soon.” 

Una, having received instructions in her native language, 
conducted Waverley out by a passage different from that 


54 


WAVERLEY. 


through which he had entered the apartment. A small path, 
which had been rendered easy in many places for Florals ac- 
commodation, led him through scenery of peculiar beauty, 
until at a short turning the path suddenly placed Waverley 
in front of a romantic waterfall. 

Here he found Flora. Two paces farther back stood 
Cathleen, holding a small Scottish harp, the use of which had 
been taught to Flora by Rory Dali, one of the last harpers 
of the Western Highlands. The sun, now stooping in the 
west, gave a rich and varied tinge to all objects. 

I have given you the trouble of walking to this spot. 
Captain Waverley, both because I thought the scenery would 
interest you, and because a Highland song would suffer still 
more from my imperfect translation were I to introduce it 
without its own wild and appropriate accompaniments.^^ 
Flora had exchanged the measured and monotonous recita- 
tive of the bard for a lofty and uncommon Highland air, 
which had been a battle-song in former ages. A few irregu- 
lar strains introduced a prelude of a wild and peculiar tone, 
which harmonised well with the distant waterfall, and the 
soft sigh of the evening breeze in the rustling leaves. The 
following verses convey but little idea of the feelings with 
which they were heard by Waverley : 

There is mist on the mountain, and night on the vale, 

But more dark is the sleep of the sons of the Gael. 

A stranger commanded — it sunk on the land, 

It has frozen each heart, and benumb’d every hand I 

The dirk and the target lie sordid with dust. 

The bloodless claymore is but redden’d with rust ; 

On the hill or the glen if a gun should appear. 

It is only to war with the heath-cock or deer. 

The deeds of our sires if our bards should rehearse, 

Let a blush or a blow be the meed of their verse I 
Be mute every string, and be hush’d every tone. 

That shall bid us remember the fame that is flown. 


THE chieftain's SISTER. 


55 


But the dark hours of night and of slumber are past, 

The morn on our mountains is dawning at last ; 

Glenaladale’s peaks are illumed with the rays, 

And the streams of Glenfinnan leap bright in the blaze. 

O high-minded Moray ! the exiled ! the dear ! 

In the blush of the dawning the Standard uprear ! 

Wide, wide on the winds of the north let it fly, 

Like the sun’s latest flash when the tempest is nigh ! 

Ye sons of the strong, when that dawning shall break, 

Need the harp of the. aged remind you to wake ? 

That dawn never beam’d on your forefathers’ eye. 

But it roused each high chieftain to vanquish or die. 

Oh, sprung from the Kings who in Islay kept state. 

Proud chiefs of Clan Ranald, Glengarry, and Sleat ! 

Combine like three streams from one mountain of snow. 

And resistless in union rush down on the foe. 

Here a large greyhound, bounding up the glen, jumped 
upon Flora and interrupted her music by his importunate 
caresses. At a distant whistle he turned and shot down the 
path again with the rapidity of an arrow. 

‘^That is rergus'’s faithful attendant. Captain Waverley, 
and that was his signal.'’^ 

Waverley expressed his regret at the interruption. 

Oh, you cannot guess how much you have lost!” replied 
Flora. You should have heard a practical admonition to 
the fair-haired son of the stranger, who lives in the land 
where the grass is always green — the rider on the shining 
pampered steed, whose hue is like the raven, and whose neigh 
is like the scream of the eagle for battle. This valiant horse- 
man is affectionately conjured to remember that his ancestors 
were distinguished by their loyalty as well as by their courage. 
All this you have lost.” 

As Flora concluded, Fergus reached them. 

I knew I should find you here, even without the assist- 
ance of my friend Bran. Come, let us go back to the castle.” 


56 


WAVERLEY. 


In the progress of their return, the Chieftain warmly 
pressed Waverley to remain for a week or two at the castle in 
order to see a grand hunting party, in which he and some 
other Highland gentlemen proposed to join. The charms of 
melody and beauty were too strongly impressed in Edward’s 
breast to permit his declining an invitation so pleasing. It 
was agreed, therefore, that he should write a note to the 
Baron of Bradwardine, expressing his intention to stay a 
fortnight at Glennaquoich, and requesting him to forward 
any letters which might have arrived for him. 

With such discourse they reached the castle, and Waverley 
soon prepared his despatches for Tully-Veolan. As he knew 
the Baron was punctilious in such matters, he was about to 
impress his billet with a seal on which his armorial bearings 
were engraved, but he did not find it at his watch, and* 
thought he must have left it at Tully-Veolan. He mentioned 
his loss, borrowing at the same time the family seal of the 
Chieftain. 

Surely,” said Miss Mac-Ivor, Donald Bean Lean would 
not ” 

My life for him in such circumstances,” answered her 
brother ; besides, he would never have left the watch be- 
hind.” 

Edward at length retired, his mind agitated by a variety 
of new and conflicting feelings. 


CHAPTER XY. 

A STAG HUNT AND ITS CONSEQUENCES. 

The solemn hunting was delayed, from various causes, for 
about three weeks. The interval was spent by Waverley with 
great satisfaction at Glennaquoich ; for the impression which 
Flora had inad^ his mind at their first meeting grew daily 


A STAG HUNT AND ITS CONSEQUENCES. 


57 


stronger. Her manners, her language, her talents for poetry 
and music, gave additional and varied influences to her emi- 
nent personal charms. In the neighbourhood of this en- 
chantress, while sport consumed the morning and music and 
the dance led on the hours of evening, Waverley became 
daily more delighted with his hospitable landlord, and more 
enamoured of his bewitching sister. 

At length the period fixed for the grand hunting arrived, 
and Waverley and the Chieftain departed for the place of 
rendez-vous, which was a day^s journey to the northward of 
Glennaquoich. Fergus was attended on this occasion by about 
three hundred of his clan, well armed and accoutred in their 
best fashion. They found on the spot appointed several 
powerful Chiefs, to all of whom Waverley was formally pre- 
sented, and by all cordially received. 

For many hours after sunrise the mountain ridges and 
passes retained their ordinary appearance of silence and soli- 
tude, and the Chiefs, with their followers, amused themselves 
with various pastimes. At length signals of the approach of 
the game were heard. Distant shouts resounded from valley 
to valley, as the various parties of Highlanders, climbing 
rocks, struggling through copses, wading brooks, and travers- 
ing thickets, approached more and more near to each other, 
and compelled the astonished deer into a narrower circuit. 
Every now and then the report of muskets was heard, repeated 
by a thousand echoes. The baying of the dogs was soon 
added to the chorus, which grew ever louder and more loud. 
At length the advanced parties of the deer began to show 
themselves ; and as the stragglers came bounding down the 
pass by two or three at a time, the Chiefs showed their 
skill by distinguishing the fattest deer, and their dex- 
terity in bringing them down with their guns. Fergus 
exhibited remarkable address, and Edward was also so 
fortunate as to attract the notice and applause of the 
sportsmen. 


58 


WAVERLEY. 


But now the main body of the deer appeared at the head 
of the glen, compelled into a very narrow compass, and pre- 
senting such a formidable phalanx that their antlers appeared 
at a distance, over the ridge of the steep pass, like a leafless 
* grove. From a desperate stand which they made, with the 
tallest of the red-deer stags arranged in front, in a sort of 
battle-array, gazing on the group which barred their passage 
down the glen, the more experienced sportsmen began to 
augur danger. Dogs and hunters were at work, and muskets 
resounded from every quarter. The deer, driven to despera- 
tion, made at length a fearful charge right upon the spot 
where the more distinguished sportsmen had taken their 
stand. The word was given in Gaelic to fling themselves 
upon their faces ; but Waverley, on whose English ears the 
signal was lost, had almost fallen a sacriflce to his ignorance 
of the language. Fergus, observing his danger, sprung up 
and pulled him with violence to the ground, just as the whole 
herd broke down upon them. The activity of the Chieftain 
may be considered as having saved his guest’s life. He de- 
tained him with a Arm grasp until the whole herd of deer 
had fairly run over them. Waverley then attempted to rise, 
but found that he had suffered several very severe contu- 
sions, and, upon a further examination, discovered that he 
had sprained his ankle violently. 

A wigwam was erected almost in an instant, where Edward 
was deposited on a couch of heather. The surgeon appeared 
to unite the characters of a leech and a conjuror. He was 
an old smoke-dried Highlander, wearing a venerable grey 
beard, and having for his sole garment a tartan frock, the 
skirts of which descended to the knee. He observed great 
ceremony in approaching Edward ; and though our hero was 
writhing with pain, would not proceed to any operation which 
might assuage it until he had perambulated his couch three 
times, moving from east to west, according to the course of 
the sun. 


A STAG HUNT AND ITS CONSEQUENCES. 


59 


After this ceremony was duly performed, the Esculapius * 
let his patient^s blood with a cupping-glass with great dex- 
terity, and proceeded, muttering all the while to himself in 
Gaelic, to boil on the fire certain herbs, with which he com- 
pounded an embrocation. He then fomented the parts which 
had sustained injury, never failing to murmur prayers or 
spells, which of the two Waverley could not distinguish, as 
his ear only caught the words Gaspar-MelcMor-BaWiazar- 
max-prax-fax,^ and similar gibberish. The fomentation had 
a speedy elfect in alleviating the pain and swelling, which our 
hero imputed to the virtue of the herbs or the effect of the 
chafing, but which was by the bystanders unanimously as- 
cribed to the spells with which the operation had been accom- 
panied. Waverley made no commentary on the manner of 
the treatment, but rewarded the professor of medicine with a 
liberality beyond the utmost conception of his wildest hopes. 
After he was left alone, the exhaustion of pain and fatigue 
threw him into a profound, but yet a feverish sleep. 

Early the next morning it became a question how to dis- 
pose of the disabled sportsman. This was settled by Mac- 
Ivor, who had a litter prepared, which was borne by his 
people with much caution and dexterity. At length, his men 
being completely assembled and mustered, Mac-Ivor com- 
menced his march, but not towards the quarter from which 
they had come. He gave Edward to understand that the 
greater part of his followers now on the field were bound on 
a distant expedition, and that when he had deposited him in 
the house of a gentleman, who he was sure would pay him 
every attention, he himself should be under the necessity of 
accompanying them the greater part of the way, but would 
lose no time in rejoining his friend. 

Waverley was rather surprised that Fergus had not men- 

* i.e. disciple of Esculapius, the Greek god of medicine. 

a The names are those of the three Wiae Men who came from the East to be present at 
the birth of Christ. 


60 


WAVERLEY. 


tioned this ulterior destination when they set out upon the 
hunting-party ; but this situation did not admit of many inter- 
rogatories. About noon, after a journey which the nature of 
the conveyance, the pain of his bruises, and the roughness of 
the way rendered inexpressibly painful, Waverley was hospit- 
ably received into the house of a gentleman related to Fergus, 
who had prepared for him every accommodation which the 
simple habits of living then universal in the Highlands put in 
his power. At length Fergus took farewell of Edward for a 
few days, and said he hoped that upon his return Waverley 
would be able to go to Glennaquoich. 

It is unnecessary to trace the progress of our heron’s recov- 
ery. The sixth morning had arrived, and he was able to walk 
about with a staff, when Fergus returned with about a score 
of his men. He seemed in the highest spirits, and finding 
Waverley was able to sit on horseback, proposed their imme- 
diate return to Glennaquoich. The latter joyfully acceded. 
His bosom beat thick when they approached the castle, and 
could distinguish the fair form of its mistress advancing to 
meet them. 

Fergus, with his usual high spirits, shouted a greeting. 
Flora now advanced, and welcoming Waverley with much 
kindness, expressed her regret for his accident. 

This greeting over, Fergus said three or four words to his 
sister in Gaelic. The tears instantly sprung to her eyes, but 
they seemed to be tears of devotion and joy, for she looked up 
to heaven and folded her hands as in a solemn expression of 
prayer or gratitude. After the pause of a minute, she pre- 
sented to Edward some letters which had been forwarded 
from Tully-Veolan during his absence, and at the same time 
delivered some to her brother. 


NEWS FROM ENGLAND. 


61 


CHAPTER XVL 

NEWS FROM ENGLAND. 

The letters which Waverley had hitherto received from his 
relations in England were not such as required any particular 
notice in this narrative. But the packet delivered to him at 
Glennaquoich was of a different and more interesting com- 
plexion. It would he impossible for the reader to compre- 
hend the real cause of their being written, without a glance 
into the interior of the British cabinet at the period in 
question. 

The ministers of the day happened to be divided into two 
parties ; the weakest of which had of late acquired some nexv 
proselytes, and with them the hope of superseding their 
rivals. Amongst others, they had thought it worth while to 
practise upon Richard Waverley. This honest gentleman 
had acquired a certain name and credit in public life, and even 
established, with many, the character of a profound politician. 

This faith had become so general that the insurgent party 
in the cabinet, after sounding Mr. Richard Waverley, were so 
satisfied with his sentiments and abilities as to propose that, 
in case of a certain revolution in the ministry, he should 
take a place greatly higher, in point both of emolument and 
infiuence, than that which he now enjoyed. There was no 
resisting so tempting a proposal, but unfortunately this fair 
scheme of ambition was blighted in the very bud by a prema- 
ture movement. All the official gentlemen concerned in it 
who hesitated to take the part of a voluntary resignation were 
informed that the king had no further occasion for their ser- 
vices ; and in Richard Waverley^s case dismissal was accom- 
panied by something like personal contempt and contumely. 

Richard Waverley^s letter to his son upon this occasion 


62 


WAVERLEY. 


was a masterpiece of its kind. An unjust monarch and an 
ungrateful country were the burden of each rounded para- 
graph. He spoke of long services and unrequited sacrifices ; 
though the former had been overpaid by his salary, and 
nobody could guess in what the latter consisted, unless it 
were in his deserting, not from conviction, but for the lucre 
of gain, the Tory principles of his family. In the conclusion, 
he could not repress some threats of vengeance, however 
vague and impotent, and finally acquainted his son with his 
pleasure that he should testify his sense of the ill-treatment 
he had sustained by throwing up his commission as soon as 
the letter reached him. 

The next letter which Edward opened was from Sir Everard. 
His brother's disgrace seemed to have removed from his 
well-natured bosom all recollection of their differences. The 
good but credulous Baronet at once set it down as a new and 
enormous instance of the injustice of the existing govern- 
ment. It was both the opinion of Mr. Eichard Waverley and 
his own that Edward, the representative of the family of 
Waverley-Honour, should not remain in a situation which sub- 
jected him also to such treatment as that with which his 
father had been stigmatised. He requested his nephew, 
therefore, to take the fittest, and at the same time the most 
speedy, opportunity of transmitting his resignation to the 
War Office. 

These letters, as might have been expected, highly ex- 
cited Waverley^s indignation. He entered without hesita- 
tion into the resentful feeling of the relations who had the 
best title to dictate his conduct ; and not perhaps the less 
willingly when he remembered the taedium of his quarters, 
and the inferior figure which he had made among the offi- 
cers of his regiment. If he could have' had any doubt upon 
the subject it would have been decided by the following let- 
ter from his commanding officer, which, as it is very short, 
shall be inserted verbatim : 


NEWS FROM ENGLAND. 


63 


Sir, 

Having carried somewhat beyond the line of my duty an 
indulgence which even the lights of nature, and much more 
those of Christianity, direct towards errors which may arise 
from youth and inexperience, and that altogether without 
elfect, I am reluctantly compelled, at the present crisis, to 
use the only remaining remedy which is in my power. You 

are, therefore, hereby commanded to repair to , the 

headquarters of the regiment, within three days after the 
date of this letter. If you shall fail to do so, I must report 
you to the War Office as absent without leave, and also take 
other steps, which will be disagreeable to you as well as to. 

Sir, 

^^Your obedient Servant, 

J. GtArdiner, Lieut.-Col. 

“ Commanding the Regt. Dragoons.” 

Edward’s blood boiled within him as he read this letter. 
Nothing had occurred, to his knowledge, that should have 
induced the commanding officer, without any other warning 
than the hints in his first letter so suddenly to assume a 
harsh and, as Edward deemed it, so insolent a tone of dicta- 
torial authority. Connecting it with the letters he had just 
received from his family, he could not hut suppose that the 
whole was a concerted scheme to depress and degrade every 
member of the Waverley family. 

Without a pause Edward wrote a few cold lines to his 
lieutenant-colonel. The tone of Colonel Gardiner’s letter, 
as well as what he (Edward) conceived to be his own duty in 
the present crisis, called upon him to lay down his commis- 
sion ; and he therefore enclosed the formal resignation of a 
situation which subjected him to so unpleasant a correspond- 
ence, and requested Colonel Gardiner would have the good- 
ness to forward it to the proper authorities. 

Having finished this magnanimous epistle, he resolved to 
consult Fergus Mac-Ivor. 

When Edward found his friend, the latter had still in his 


64 


WAVERLEY. 


hand the newspaper which he had perused, and advanced to 
meet him with the embarrassment of one who has unpleas- 
ing news to communicate. 

“Do your letters. Captain Waverley, confirm the unpleas- 
ing information which I find in this paper ? 

He put the paper into his hand, where his father^s disgrace 
was registered in the most hitter terms, transferred probably 
from some London journal. At the end of the paragraph 
was this remarkable innuendo : 

“We understand that ^this same Richard who hath done 
all this ■’ is not the only example of the Wavering Honour of 
W-v-r-ly H-n-r. See the Gazette of this day." 

With hurried and feverish apprehension our hero turned to 
the place referred to, and found therein recorded, “ Edward 

Waverley, captain in regiment dragoons, superseded for 

absence without leave " ; and in the list of military promo- 
tions, referring to the same regiment, he discovered this 
farther article, “ Lieut. Julius Butler, to be captain, vice 
Edward Waverley superseded." 

Our heroes bosom glowed with the resentment which un- 
deserved insult was calculated to excite in the bosom of one 
who was thus wantonly held up to public scorn and disgrace. 
Upon comparing the date of his colonel’s letter with that of 
the article in the Gazette, he perceived that his threat of 
making a report upon his absence had been literally fulfilled. 
The whole appeared a formed plan to degrade him in the 
eyes of the public ; and the idea of its having succeeded filled 
him with such bitter emotions that he at length threw him- 
self into Mac-Ivor’s arms, and gave vent to tears of shame and 
indignation. 

It was none of this Chieftain’s faults to be indifferent to 
the wrongs of his friends. The proceeding appeared as ex- 
traordinary to him as it had done to Edward. He soothed 


NEWS FROM ENGLAND. 


65 


our hero, however, to the best of his power, and began to 
turn his thoughts on revenge for his insulted honour. 

Edward eagerly grasped at the idea. 

Am said Waverley, to sit down quiet and contented 
under the injury I have received ? ” 

That will I never advise my friend, replied Mac-Ivor. 

But I will have vengeance to fall on the head, not on the 
hand, on the tyrannical and oppressive government which 
designed and directed these insults, not on the tools of office 
which they employed in the execution of the injuries they 
aimed at you.^^ 

On the government I” said Waverley. 

Yes,^^ replied the impetuous Highlander, ^'on the usurp- 
ing House of Hanover, whom your grandfather would no 
more have served than he would have taken wages of red-hot 
gold from the great fiend of hell ! 

But since the time of my grandfather two generations of 
this dynasty have possessed the throne,^'’ said Edward coolly. 

True,^^ replied the Chieftain; ^^and because we have 
passively given them so long the means of showing their 
native character — because both you and I myself have lived 
in quiet submission, have even truckled to the times so far 
as to accept commissions under them, and thus have given 
them an opportunity of disgracing us publicly by resuming 
them, are we not on that account to resent injuries which 
our fathers only apprehended, but which we have actually 
sustained ? Or is the cause of the unfortunate Stuart family 
become less just, because their title has devolved upon an 
heir who is innocent of the charges of misgovernment brought 
against his father ? Come, clear your moody brow, and 
trust to me to show you an honourable road to a speedy and 
glorious revenge. Let us seek Flora, who perhaps has more 
news to tell us of what has occurred during our absence. But 
first add a postscript to your letter, marking the time when 
you received this calvinistical coloneTs first summons, and 
5 


66 


WAVERLEY. 


express your regret that the hastiness of his proceedings pre- 
vented your anticipating them hy sending your resignation. 
Then let him blush for his injustice.’’^ 

^ The letter was sealed accordingly, covering a formal resig- 
nation of the commission, and Mac-Ivor despatched it by 
special messenger, with charge to put it into the nearest post- 
office in the Lowlands. 


CHAPTER XVII. 

A DECLARATION. 

The hint which the Chieftain had thrown out respecting 
Flora was not unpremeditated. He had observed with great 
satisfaction the growing attachment of Waverley to his sister, 
nor did he see any bar to their union, excepting the situation 
which Waverley ’s father held in the ministry, and Edward^s 
own commission in the army of George II. These obstacles 
were now removed, and in a manner which apparently paved 
the way for the son^s becoming reconciled to another alle- 
giance. In every other respect the match would be most 
eligible. Waverley^s attachment was evident ; and he antici- 
pated no opposition on the part of Flora. 

The Chief now led Waverley in quest of Miss Mac-Ivor, 
not without the hope that the present agitation of his guest^s 
spirits might give him courage to cut short the romance of 
the courtship. They found Flora busied in preparing what 
appeared to Waverley to be white bridal favours. Disguising 
as well as he could the agitation of his mind, Waverley asked 
for what joyful occasion Miss Mac-Ivor made such ample 
preparation. 

It is for Ferguses bridal, she said, smiling. 

Indeed ! said Edward ; he has kept his secret well. I 
hope he will allow me to be his bride^s man.-’^ 


A DECLAEATION. 


67 


That is a man^s office, but not yours, retorted Mora. 

And who is the fair lady, may I be permitted to ask. 
Miss Mac-Ivor ? 

Did not I tell you long since that Fergus wooed no bride 
but Honour ? answered Flora. 

And am I then incapable of being his assistant and coun- 
sellor in the pursuit of honour ? said our hero, colouring 
deeply. Do I rank so low in your opinion ?” 

^^Far from it. Captain Waverley. I made use of the ex- 
pression : 

“ Because you are not of our quality, 

But stand against us as an enemy.” 

'^That time is past, sister, said Fergus ; '^and you may 
wish Edward Waverley (no longer captain) joy of being freed 
from the slavery to an usurper. 

Yes,^^ said Waverley, undoing the cockade from his hat, 

has pleased the king who bestowed this badge upon me to 
resume it in a manner which leaves me little reason to regret 
his service. 

Thank God for that ! cried the enthusiast. 

And now, sister, said the Chieftain, replace his cockade 
with one of a more lively colour.'’^ 

Most willingly, she replied with great sweetness, 
would I enlist every man of honour in the cause to which 
my brother has devoted himself. But how can I wish you, 
Mr. Waverley, so new to the world, so far from every friend 
who might advise and ought to influence you, — in a momenta 
too, of sudden pique and indignation, — how can I wish you 
to plunge yourself at once into so desperate an enterprise ? 

Fergus, who did not understand these delicacies, strode 
through the apartment biting his lip, and then, with a con- 
strained smile, said, Well, sister, I leave you to act your 
new character of mediator between the Elector of Hanover * 


* i.e. George II. 


68 


WAVERLEY. 


and the subjects of your lawful sovereign and benefactor/' 
and left the room. 

There was a painful pause, which was at length broken by 
'Miss Mac-Ivor. My brother is unjust/' she said, because 
he can bear no interruption that seems to thwart his loyal zeal." 

And do you not share his ardour ?" asked Waverley. 

Do I not ? " answered Flora. God knows mine exceeds 
his, if that be possible. But I am not, like him, rapt by the 
bustle of military preparation. And, my dear Mr. Waverley, 
to induce you to an irretrievable step, of which you have not 
considered either the justice or the danger, is, in my poor 
judgment, neither the one nor the other." 

“Incomparable Flora!" said Edward, taking her hand, 
“ how much do I need such a monitor I " 

“Abetter one by far," said Flora, gently withdrawing her 
hand, “ Mr. Waverley will always find in his own bosom, 
when he will give its small still voice leisure to be heard." 

“ No, Miss Mac-Ivor, I dare not hope it. Durst I but 
hope — could I but think — that you would deign to be to me 
that affectionate, that condescending friend, who would 

strengthen me to redeem my errors, my future life " 

“ Hush, my dear sir I now you carry your joy at escaping 
the hands of a Jacobite recruiting officer to an unparalleled 
excess of gratitude." 

“ Nay, dear Flora, trifle with me no longer ; you cannot 
mistake the meaning of those feelings which I have almost 
involuntarily expressed ; and since I have broken the barrier 
of silence, let me profit by my audacity. Or may I, with 

your permission, mention to your brother " 

“Not for the world, Mr. Waverley ! " 

“ What am I to understand ? " said Edward. “ Is there any 

fatal bar — has any prepossession " 

“ None, sir," answered Flora. “ I owe it to myself to say 
that I never yet saw the person on whom I thought with ref- 
erence to the present subject." 


A DECLARATION. 


69 


The shortness of our acquaintance, perhaps — If Miss Mac- 

Ivor will deign to give me time 

“ I have not even that excuse. Captain Waverley^s char- 
acter is so open — is, in short, of that nature that it cannot be 
misconstrued, either in its strength or its weakness.'’^ 

^^And for that weakness you despise me ? said Ed- 
ward. 

Forgive me, Mr. Waverley — and remember it is but within 
this half-hour that there existed between us a barrier to me 
insurmountable, since I never could think of an officer in the 
service of the Elector of Hanover in any other light than as 
a casual acquaintance. Permit me then to arrange my ideas, 
and in less than an hour I will be ready to give you such 
reasons for the resolution I shall express as may he satisfac- 
tory at least, if not pleasing to you.-’^ So saying. Flora 
withdrew. 

Ere he could make up his mind whether to believe his suit 
had been acceptable or no, Fergus re-entered the apartment. 

What, Waverley ! he cried. Come down with me to the 
court, and you shall see a sight worth all the tirades of your 
romances. An hundred firelocks, my friend, and as many 
broadswords, just arrived from good friends ; and two or 
three hundred stout fellows almost fighting which shall first 
possess them. But let me look at you closer. Why, a true 
Highlander would say you had been blighted by an evil eye. 
Or can it be this silly girl that has thus blanked your spirit ? 
Never mind her, dear Edward ; the wisest of her sex are fools 
in what regards the business of life.^"" 

“Indeed, my good friend,^" answered AVaverley, “all that 
I can charge against your sister is, that she is too sensible, too 
reasonable.'’^ 

“ If that be all, I ensure you against the mood lasting four- 
and-twenty hours. No woman was ever steadily sensible for 
that period ; and I will engage, if that will please you. Flora 
shall he as unreasonable to-morrow as any of her sex.'’'’ 


70 


WAVEKLEY. 


So saying, he seized Waverley’s arm and dragged him off 
to review his military preparations. 


CHAPTEE XVIII. 

UPOK THE SAME SUBJECT. 

Fergus Mac-Ivor had too much tact and delicacy to renew 
the subject which he had interrupted. His head was, or ap- 
peared to be, so full of guns, broadswords, bonnets,^ canteens, 
and tartan hose that Waverley could not for some time draw 
his attention to any other topic. 

^^Are you to take the field so soon, Fergus,” he asked, 
'^that you are making all these martial preparations ?” 

When we have settled that you go with me, you shall know 
all.” 

But are you serious in your purpose, with such inferior 
forces, to rise against an established government ? It is mere 
frenzy.” 

‘^1 would not, however,” continued the Chieftain, ^Hiave 
you think me mad enough to stir till a favourable opportunity. 
But, once more, will you join with us ?” 

How can I,” said Waverley ; I, who have so lately held 
that commission which is now posting back to those that gave 
it ? My accepting it implied a promise of fidelity, and an 
acknowledgment of the legality of the government.” 

A rash promise,” answered Fergus, ‘'^is not a steel hand- 
cuff ; it may be shaken off, especially when it was given under 
deception, and has been repaid by insult. But if you cannot 
immediately make up your mind to a glorious revenge, go to 
England, and ere you cross the Tweed you will hear tidings 
that will make the world ring ; and if Sir Everard be the 
gallant old cavalier I have heard him described by some of 

* A soft, seamless, woollen cap, worn by men in Scotland. 


UPON THE SAME SUBJECT. 


71 


our honest gentlemen of the year one thousand seven hundred 
and fifteen, he will find you a better horse-troop and a better 
cause than you have lost." 

^^But your sister, Fergus ?" 

Out, hyperbolical fiend ! " replied the Chief, laughing ; 

how vexest thou this man ! Speak^st thou of nothing but 
of ladies ? " 

Nay, be serious, my dear friend," said Waverley, how 
could you suppose me jesting on such a subject ?" 

Then, I am very glad to hear it ; and so highly do I 
think of Flora, that you are the only man in England for 
whom I would say so much. But your own family — will 
they approve your connecting yourself with the sister of a 
high-born Highland beggar ? " 

My uncle’s situation," said Waverley, entitles me to 
say that birth and personal qualities are all he would look 
to in such a connexion. And where can I find both united 
in such excellence as in your sister ? " 

^^But your father will expect a father’s prerogative in being 
consulted." 

“ Surely ; but his late breach with the ruling powers re- 
moves all apprehension of objection on his part, especially as 
I am convinced that my uncle will be warm in my cause. 
But do not think of my friends, dear Fergus ; let me rather 
have your infiuence where it may be more necessary to 
remove obstacles — I mean with your lovely sister." 

My lovely sister," replied Fergus, ^^like her loving brother, 
is very apt to have a pretty decisive will of her own, by 
which, in this case, you must be ruled ; but you shall not 
want my interest, nor my counsel. I think I saw Flora go 
up towards the waterfall a short time since ; follow, man, 
follow ! don’t allow the garrison time to strengthen its pur- 
poses of resistance." 

Waverley ascended the glen with an anxious and throbbing 
heart. Pondering the doubtful and dangerous prospect 


72 


WAVERLEY. 


before him, he at length arrived near the cascade, where, as 
Fergus had augured, he found Flora seated. 

She was quite alone, and as soon as she observed his ap- 
proach she rose and came to meet him. Edward attempted 
to say something within the verge of ordinary compliment, 
but found himself unequal to the task. Flora seemed at first 
equally embarrassed, but recovered herself more speedily, and 
(an unfavourable augury) was the first to enter upon the 
subject. ^^Itis too important, in every point of view, Mr. 
Waverley, to permit me to leave you in doubt on my senti- 
ments.'’'’ 

Do not speak them speedily,'’^ said Waverley, much 
agitated, unless they are such as I fear, from your manner, 
I must not dare to anticipate. Let time — let my future con- 
duct — let your brothers influence 

Forgive me, Mr. Waverley,'’'’ said Flora, her complexion 
a little heightened, but her voice firm and composed. I 
should incur my own heavy censure did I delay expressing 
my sincere conviction that I can never regard you otherwise 
than as a valued friend. I should do you the highest injustice 
did I conceal my sentiments for a moment.” 

She sat down upon a fragment of rock, and Waverley, plac- 
ing himself near her, anxiously pressed for the explanation 
she offered. 

I dare hardly,” she said, tell you the situation of my 
feelings, they are so different from those usually ascribed to 
young women at my period of life. From my infancy till 
this day I have had but one wish — the restoration of my 
royal benefactors to their rightful throne. It is impossible 
to express to you the devotion of my feelings to this single 
subject ; and I will frankly confess that it has so occupied my 
mind as to exclude every thought respecting what is called 
my own settlement in life.” 

But, dearest Flora, how is your enthusiastic zeal for the 
exiled family inconsistent with my happiness ?” 


UPON THE SAME SUBJECT. 


73 


Because you seek, or ought to seek, in the object of your 
attachment, a heart whose principal delight should be in aug- 
menting your domestic felicity and returning your affection, 
even to the height of romance/^ 

In other words. Miss Mac-Ivor, you cannot love me ? 
said her suitor dejectedly. 

could esteem you, Mr. AYaverley, as much, perhaps 
more than any man I have ever seen ; but I cannot love you 
as you ought to be loved. 

AYaverley attempted to reply, but his words failed him. 
Every sentiment that Flora had uttered vindicated the 
strength of his attachment ; for even her loyalty, although 
wildly enthusiastic, was generous and noble, and disdained 
to avail itself of any indirect means of supporting the cause 
to which she was devoted. 

After walking a little way in silence down the path. Flora 
thus resumed the conversation : One word more, Mr. 
AYaverley, ere we bid farewell to this topic for ever ; and for- 
give my boldness if that word have the air of advice. My 
brother Fergus is anxious that you should join him in his 
present enterprise. But do not consent to this ; you could 
not, by your single exertions, further his success, and you 
would inevitably share his fall, if it be God^s pleasure that 
fall he must. Let me beg you will return to your own coun- 
try, and find opportunity to serve your injured sovereign 
with effect, and stand forth, as your loyal ancestors, at the 
liead of your natural followers and adherents, a worthy repre- 
sentative of the house of AYaverley.” 

And should I be so happy as thus to distinguish myself, 
might I not hope 

Forgive my interruption,'’^ said Flora. The present 
time only is ours. How my feelings might be altered by 
events it were in vain even to conjecture. Only be assured, Mr. 
Waverley, that, after my brother's honour and happiness, there 
is none which I shall more sincerely pray for than for yours." 


74 


WAVERLEY. 


With these words she parted from him, for they were now 
arrived where two paths separated. Waverley reached the 
castle amidst a medley of conflicting passions. 

When retired to his own apartment, Edward endeavoured 
to sum up the business of the day. That the repulse he had 
received from Flora would be persisted in for the present, 
there was no doubt. But could he hope for ultimate success 
in case circumstances permitted the renewal of his suit ? He 
taxed his memory to recall every word she had used, with the 
appropriate looks and gestures which had enforced them, and 
ended by finding himself in the same state of uncertainty. 
It was very late before sleep brought relief to the tumult of 
his mind. 


CHAPTER XIX. 

A LETTER FROM TULLY-YEOLAK. 

In' the morning, when Waverley^s troubled reflections had 
for some time given way to repose, there came music to his 
dreams. He imagined that he heard Davie Gellatley singing 
in the courts those matins which used generally to be 
the first sounds that disturbed his repose while a guest of 
the Baron of Bradwardine. The notes waxed louder, until 
Edward awoke in earnest. The apartment was in the fortress 
of Mac-Ivor, but it was still the voice of Davie Gellatley that 
resounded under the window. 

Waverley dressed himself with all haste, and by the time 
he issued forth, David was capering and dancing full merrily 
to the music of his own whistling. The appearance of Wa- 
verley did not interrupt David's exercise, but still keeping 
time to the music, he thrust a letter into our hero's hand, 
and continued his dance without pause or intermission. Ed- 
ward, who perceived that the address was in Rose's hand- 


A LETTER FROM TULLY-VEOLAN. 


75 


writing, i etired to peruse it, leaving the faithful bearer to 
continue his exercise until he should be tired out. 

The contents of the letter greatly surprised him. It had 
originally commenced with Dear Sir ; but these words had 
been carefully erased, and the monosyllable Sir substituted 
in their place. The rest of the contents shall be given in 
Rosens own language. ‘ 

I fear I am using an improper freedom by intruding upon 
you, yet I cannot trust to any one else to let you know some 
things which have happened here, with which it seems neces- 
sary you should be acquainted. Forgive me if I am wrong 
in what I am doing ; for, alas ! Mr. Waverley, I have no better 
advice than that of my own feelings ; my dear father is gone 
from this place, and when he can return to my assistance and 
protection, God alone knows. You have probably heard that, 
in consequence of some troublesome news from the Highlands, 
warrants were sent out for apprehending several gentlemen 
in these parts, and, among others, my dear father. In spite 
of all my tears and entreaties that he would surrender himself 
to the government, he joined with Mr. Falconer and some 
other gentlemen, and they have all gone northwards, with a 
body of about forty horsemen. So I am not so anxious con- 
cerning his immediate safety as about what may follow after- 
wards, for these troubles are only beginning. 

The day after my father went off there came a party of 
soldiers to Tully-Veolan, and behaved very rudely to Bailie 
Macwheeble ; but the officer was very civil to me, only said 
his duty obliged him to search for arms and papers. My 
father had provided against this by taking away all the arms 
except the old useless things which hung in the hall, and he 
had put all his papers out of the way. But oh ! Mr. Waver- 
ley, how shall I tell you, that they made strict inquiry after 
you, and asked when you had been at Tully-Veolan, and 
where you now were. The officer is gone back with his party, 
but a non-commissioned officer and four men remain as a sort 
of garrison in the house. They have hitherto behaved very 
well, as we are forced to keep them in good-humour. But 
these soldiers have hinted as if, on your falling into their 
hands, you would be in great danger. The party that re- 
turned carried off your servant prisoner, with your two horses. 


76 


WAVERLEY. 


and everything that you left at Tnlly-Veolan. I hope God 
will protect yon, and that you will get safe home to England, 
where you used to tell me there was no military violence nor 
fighting among clans permitted, but everything was done 
^according to an equal law that protected all who were harm- 
less and innocent. I hope you will exert your indulgence as 
to my boldness in writing to you, where it seems to me, 
though perhaps erroneously, that your safety and honour are 
concerned. I am sure — at least I think — my father would 
approve of my writing. Farewell, Captain Waverley ! I shall 
probably never see you more ; for it would be very improper 
to wish you to call at Tully-Veolan just now, even if these 
men were gone ; but I will always remember with gratitude 
your kindness in assisting so poor a scholar as myself, and 
your attentions to my dear, dear father. 

I remain, your obliged servant, 

"^EoSE OoMYKE BRADVy^ARDINE. 

^^P.S. — I hope you will send me a line by David Gellatley, 
just to say you have received this and that you will take care 
of yourself. 

Thus concluded the letter of Kose Bradwardine, the contents 
of which both surprised and affected Waverley. That the 
Baron should fall under the suspicions of government, in con- 
sequence of the present stir among the partisans of the house 
of Stuart, seemed only the natural consequence of his political 
predilections ; but how he himself should have been involved 
in such suspicions, conscious that until yesterday he had been 
free from harbouring a thought against the prosperity of the 
reigning family, seemed inexplicable. Still he was aware 
that, unless he meant at once to embrace the proposal of 
Fergus Mac-Ivor, it would deeply concern him to leave the 
suspicious neighbourhood without delay. Whatever were 
the original rights of the Stuarts,^ calm reflection told him 
that, omitting the question how far James the Second could 
forfeit those of his posterity, he had, according to the united 

1 For the discussion of historical points, see the Historical Sketch in the Introduction. 


A LETTER FROM TULLY-VEOLAN. 


77 


foice of” tho whole nation, justly forfeited his own. Since 
that period four monarchs had reigned in peace and glory 
over Britain, sustaining and exalting the character of the 
nation abroad and its liberties at home. Reason asked, was 
it worth while to plunge a kingdom into all the miseries of 
civil war, for the purpose of replacing upon the throne the 
descendants of a monarch by whom it had been wilfully for- 
feited ? If, on the other hand, his own final conviction of 
the goodness of their cause, or the commands of his father 
or uncle, should recommend to him allegiance to the Stuarts, 
still it was necessary to clear his own character by showing 
that he had not taken any step to this purpose during his 
holding the commission of the reigning monarch. 

The affectionate simplicity of Rose and her anxiety for his 
safety made an impression upon his mind, and he instantly 
wrote to thank her in the kindest terms for her solicitude on 
his account, to express his earnest good wishes for her wel- 
fare and that of her father. The feelings which this task 
excited were speedily lost in the necessity which he now saw 
of bidding farewell to Flora Mac-Ivor, perhaps for ever. The 
pang attending this reflection was inexpressible. But time 
pressed, calumny was busy with his fame, and every houFs 
delay increased the power to injure it. His departure must 
be instant. 

With this determination he sought out Fergus, and com- 
municated to him the contents of Rosens letter, with his own 
resolution instantly to go to Edinburgh, and put into the 
hands of some person of influence his exculpation from any 
charge which might be preferred against him. 

“You run your head into the lion’s mouth,” answered Mac- 
Ivor.* “ I shall have to deliver you from some dungeon in 
Stirling or Edinburgh Castle.” 

“ Well, I must run my hazard.” 

“You are determined, then ?” 

“lam.” 


78 


WAVERLEY. 


** Wilful will do%^^ said Fergus. And when do you pro- 
pose to depart ? ” 

The sooner the better," answered Waverley. 

You are right, since go you must, or rather, since go you 
will. I will take Florals pony and ride with you as far as 
Bally brough. Callum Beg, see that our horses are ready." 
Then, turning to Edward, ‘^^You will take leave of my 
sister ? " 

Surely — that is, if Miss Mac-Ivor will honour me so far." 

Cathleen, let my sister know Mr. Waverley wishes to bid 
her farewell before he leaves us." 

In a moment the door opened. It was but Cathleen, with 
her lady^s excuse, and wishes for Captain Waverley^s health 
and happiness. 


CHAPTER XX. 

WAVERLET^S RECEPTION IN THE LOWLANDS AFTER HIS 
HIGHLAND TOUR. 

It was noon when the two friends stood at the top of the 
pass of Ballybrough. ‘^I must go no farther," said Fergus 
Mac-Ivor, who during the journey had in vain endeavoured to 
raise his friend^s spirits. 

Adieu, Fergus ; do not permit your sister to forget me." 

And adieu, AVaverley ; you may soon hear of her with a 
prouder title. Get home, write letters, and make friends as 
many and as fast as you can ; there will speedily be unex- 
pected guests on the coast of Suffolk, or my news from France 
has deceived me." ' 

Thus parted the friends ; Fergus returning back to his 
castle, while Edward, followed by Callum Beg, the latter 

» The sanguine Jacobites, during the years 1745-46, kept up the spirits of their party 
by rumours of descents from France in behalf of the Pretender. 


waverley’s reception in the lowlands. 79 


transforrtied from point to point into a Low-country groom, 
proceeded to the little town of . 

At the sight of the village, Galium pressed closer to his 
side, and hoped when they cam to the public, his honour 
wad not say nothing about Vich Ian Vohr, for ta people were 
bitter Whigs, deil burst them.^^ 

On alighting at the sign of the Seven-branched Golden 
Candlestick, which, for the further delectation of the guests, 
was graced with a short Hebrew motto, they were received by 
mine host, a tall thin puritanical figure, who seemed to debate 
with himself whether he ought to give shelter to those who 
travelled on Sunday, for it was that day. Reflecting, how- 
ever, in all probability, that he possessed the power of 
mulcting them for this irregularity, Mr. Ebenezer Cruick- 
shanks condescended to admit them into his dwelling. 

To this sanctified person Waverley addressed his request 
that he would procure him a guide, with a saddle-horse, to 
carry his portmanteau to Edinburgh. 

And whar may ye he coming from ? demanded mine 
host of the Candlestick. 

I have told you where I wish to go ; I do not conceive 
any further information necessary either for the guide or his 
saddle-horse. 

Hem ! ahem ! returned he of the Candlestick, somewhat 
disconcerted at this rebuff. It^s the general fast, sir, and 
I cannot enter into ony carnal transactions on sic a day, when 
the people should be humbled and the backsliders should re- 
turn, as worthy Mr. Goukthrapple said ; and moreover when, 
as the precious Mr. Jabesh Rentowel did weel observe, the 
land was mourning for covenants burnt, broken, and buried. 

My good friend,^^ said Waverley, if you cannot let me 
have a horse and guide, my servant shall seek them else- 
where. 

"^Aweel ! Your servant ? and what for gangs he not for- 
ward wi^ you himsell ? 


80 


WAVERLEY. 


On this gross provocation, the spirit of a captain of horae 
began seriously to arise in Waverley. Look ye, sir ; I came 
liere for my own accommodation, and not to answer imperti- 
nent questions. Either say you can, or cannot, get me what 
I want ; I shall pursue my course in either case.'’'’ 

Mr. Ebenezer Cruickshanks left the room with some indis- 
tinct muttering ; but whether negative or acquiescent, 
Edward could not well distinguish. Erom a window which 
overlooked the dark and narrow court in which Oallum Beg 
rubbed down the horses after their journey, Waverley heard 
the following dialogue betwixt the subtle foot-page of Vich 
Ian Vohr and his landlord : 

Ye’ll be frae the north, young man ? '’^ began the latter. 

And ye may say that,^’ answered Callum. 

And ye^ll hae ridden a lang way the day, it may weel 
be?” 

Sae lang, that I could weel take a dram.” 

‘^^Gudewife, bring the gill stoup.” * 

Here some compliments passed fitting the occasion, when 
my host of the Golden Candlestick, having, as he thought, 
opened his guesCs heart by this hospitable propitiation, re- 
sumed his scrutiny. 

Ye’ll no hae mickle better whisky than that aboon the 
Pass ?” 

am nae frae aboon the Pass.” 

Ye’re a Highlandman by your tongue ? ” 

Nae ; I am but just Aberdeen-a-way.” 

And did your master come frae Aberdeen wi’ you ? ” 

Ay ; that’s when I left it my sell,” answered the cool and 
impenetrable Callum Beg. 

And what kind of a gentleman is he ? ” 
believe he is ane o’ King George’s state officers ; at least 
he’s aye for ganging on to the south, and he has a hantle 
siller.” 


* measure. 


•waverley’s reception in the lowlands. 81 

He wants a guide and a horse frae hence to Edinburgh ? 

Ay, and ye maun find it him forthwith."^ 

Ahem ! It will be chargeable."^ 

He cares na for that a bodle ."" ' 

Aweel, Duncan — did ye say your name was Duncan, or 
Donald?"" 

^^Na, man — Jamie — Jamie Steenson — I telt ye before."" 

This last undaunted parry altogether foiled Mr. Cruick- 
shanks, who, though not quite satisfied either with the reserve 
of the master or the extreme readiness of the man, was con- 
tented to lay a tax on the reckoning and horse-hire that might 
compound for his ungratified curiosity. The circumstance of 
its being the fast day was not forgotten in the charge, which, 
on the whole, did not, however, amount to much more than 
double what in fairness it should have been. 

At length the tall, ungainly figure and ungracious visage of 
Ebenezer presented themselves to Edward. The upper part 
of his form, notwithstanding the season required no such 
defence, was shrouded in a large great-coat, belted over his 
under habiliments, and crested with a huge cowl of the same 
stuff, which, when drawn over the head and hat, completely 
overshadowed both, and, being buttoned beneath the chin, 
was called a trot-cozy. His hand grasped a huge jockey-whip, 
garnished with brass moiinting. Thus accoutred, he stalked 
into the midst of the apartment, and announced his errand 
in brief phrase : Yer horses are ready."" 

You go with me yourself then, landlord ?"" 

I do, as far as Perth ; where ye may be supplied with a 
guide to Embro", as your occasions shall require."" 

Thus saying, he placed under Waverley"s eye the bill which 
he held in his hand ; and at the same time, self-invited, filled 
a glass of wine and drank devoutly to a blessing on their 
journey. AYaverley stared at the man"s impudence, but, as 
their connection was to be short and promised to be conve- 

^ A copper coin worth a sixth of an English penny. 


6 


82 


WAVEELEY. 


nient, he made no observation upon it ; and, having paid his 
reckoning, expressed his intention to depart immediately. 
He mounted Dermid accordingly and sallied forth from the 
Golden Candlestick, followed by the puritanical figure we 
have described, after he had elevated his person to the back 
of a long-backed, raw-boned, thin-gutted phantom of a 
broken-down blood-horse, on which Waverley’s portmanteau 
was deposited. Our hero, though not in a very gay humour, 
could hardly help laughing at the appearance of his new 
squire. 

Edward^s tendency to mirth did not escape mine host of the 
Candlestick, who, conscious of the cause, infused a double 
portion of souring into the pharisaical leaven of his coun- 
tenance, and resolved internally that, in one way or other, the 
young Englisher should pay dearly for the contempt witji 
which he seemed to regard him. Callum also stood at the 
gate and enjoyed, with undissembled glee, the ridiculous figure 
of Mr. Cruickshanks. As Waverley passed him he pulled 
off his hat respectfully, and, approaching his stirrup, bade him 
^‘^Tak heed the auld Whig deevil played him nae cantrip.'’^ * 

Waverley once more thanked and bade him farewell. The 
village of was soon several miles behind him. 


CHAPTEE XXL 

SHOWS THAT THE LOSS OF A HORSE’S SHOE MAY BE A 
SERIOUS IlfCOI^VEE'IENCE. 

The manner and air of Waverley somewhat overawed his 
companion, and deterred him from making any attempts to 
enter upon conversation. His own reflections were moreover 
agitated by plans of self-interest. The travellers journeyed, 
therefore, in silence, until it was interrupted by the annunci- 


^ trick. 


LOSS OF A horse’s SHOE A SERIOUS INCONVENIENCE. 83 

ation,*<jn the part of the guide, that his ^^naig had lost a 
fore-foot shoe, which, doubtless, his honour would consider 
it was his part to replace. 

Yon mean I am to pay the farrier ; but where shall we 
find one ? " 

Rejoiced at discerning there would be no objection made 
on the part of his temporary master, Mr. Cruickshanks 
assured him that Cairnvreckan, a village which they were 
about to enter, was happy in an excellent blacksmith ; ‘^^but 
as he was a professor,^ he would drive a nail for no man 
on the Sabbath or kirk-fast, unless it were in a case of absolute 
necessity, for which he always charged sixpence each shoe.’^ 

As they entered the village of Cairnvreckan, they speedily 
distinguished the smith’s house. The adjoining smithy be- 
tokened none of the Sabbatical silence and repose which 
Ebenezer had augured from the sanctity of his friend. On 
the contrary, hammer clashed and anvil rang, the bellows 
groaned, and the whole apparatus of Vulcan appeared to be 
in full activity. The master smith, benempt,’ as his sign 
intimated, John Mucklewrath, with two assistants, toiled 
busily in arranging, repairing, and furbishing old muskets, 
pistols, and swords, which lay scattered around his workshop 
in military confusion. The open shed, containing the forge, 
was crowded with persons who came and went as if receiving 
and communicating important news ; and a single glance at 
the aspect of the people who traversed the street in haste, or 
stood assembled in groups, with eyes elevated and hands up- 
lifted, announced that some extraordinary intelligence was agi- 
tating the public mind of the municipality of Cairnvreckan. 

Waverley dismounted and gave his horse to a boy who 
stood near. Meantime, the buzz around saved him in some 
degree the trouble of interrogatories. The names of Lochiel, 
Clanronald, Glengarry, and other distinguished Highland 


1 A word used to denote any person who pretended uncommon sanctity of faith. 
* named. 


84 


WAVEELEY. 


Chiefs, among whom Vich Ian Vohr was repeatedly men- 
tioned, were as familiar in men^s mouths as household words ; 
and from the alarm generally expressed, he easily conceived 
that their descent into the Lowlands, at the head of their 
armed tribes, had either already taken place or was instantly 
apprehended. 

Ere Waverley could ask particulars, a strong, large-boned, 
hard-featured woman, about forty, dressed as if her clothes 
had been flung on with a pitchfork, her cheeks flushed with 
a scarlet red where they were not smutted with soot and lamp- 
black, jostled through the crowd, and brandishing high a 
child of two years old, which she danced in her arms, without 
regard to its screams of terror, sang forth with all her might : 

“ Charlie is my darling, my darling, my darling, 

Charlie is my darling. 

The young Chevalier ! ” 

D’ye hear what’s come ower ye now,” continued the vi- 
rago, ‘^ye whingeing^ Whig carles ? D’ye hear wha’s coming 
to cow yer cracks ? ” ^ 

The Vulcan of Cairnvreckan, who acknowledged his Venus 
in this exulting Bacchante,^ regarded her with a grim and ire- 
foreboding countenance, while some of the senators of the vil- 
lage hastened to interpose. Whisht, gu dewife ; is this a 
time or is this a day to be singing your ranting fule sangs 
in ?” 

^^And that’s a’ your Whiggery,” re-echoed the Jacobite 
heroine, cut-lugged, graning carles!^ What! d’ye 

think the lads wi’ the kilts will care for yer synods and yer 
presbyteries, and yer stool o’ repentance ? Vengeance on 
the black face o’t I I mysell ” 

Here John Mucklewrath, who dreaded her entering upon a 

1 whining. 2 g^op your chatter. 

3 The loves of Vulcan, the god of fire in Latin mythology, and Venus, the goddess of 
love, are told at length in Latin literature. The Bacchantes were priestesses of Bacchus, 
the god of wine. They are usually portrayed as dancing. 

4 crop-eared, groaning humbugs. 


LOSS OF A horse’s SHOE A SERIOUS INCONVENIENCE. 85 


detail ef personal experience^ interposed his matrimonial au- 
thority. Gae hame, and put on the sowens ^ for supper.'’^ 
And you, ye doil’d^ dotard/^ replied his gentle helpmate, 
stand there hammering dog-heads for fules that will 
never snap them at a Highlandman, instead of earning bread 
for your family and shoeing this winsome young gentleman^s 
horse that just come frae the north ! I^se warrant him a gal- 
lant Gordon, at the least o^ him.'’^ 

The eyes of the assembly were now turned upon Waverley, 
who took the opportunity to bid the smith to shoe his guide^s 
horse with all speed, as he wished to proceed on his journey ; 
for he had heard enough to make him sensible that there would 
be danger in delaying long in this place. The smithes eyes 
rested on him with a look of displeasure and suspicion. 

And what may your name be, sir quoth Mucklewrath. 

“It is of no consequence to you, my friend, provided I pay 
your labour.-’^ 

“ But it may be of consequence to the state, sir,^^ replied 
an old farmer, smelling strongly of whisky and peat-smoke ; 
“and I doubt we maun delay your journey till you have seen 
the Laird. 

“You certainly, said Waverley, haughtily, “will find it 
both difficult and dangerous to detain me, unless you can 
produce some proper authority.-’^ 

There was a pause and a whisper among the crowd — “ Sec- 
retary Murray — “Lord Lewis Gordon — “ Maybe the Chev- 
alier himsell ! He attempted to argue mildly with them, 
but his voluntary ally, Mrs. Mucklewrath, broke in upon 
and drowned his expostulations, taking his part with an 
abusive violence which was all set down to Edward's account 
by those on whom it was bestowed. “ Ye'll stop ony gentle- 
man that's the Prince's freend ?" for she too, though with 
other feelings, had adopted the general opinion respecting 
Waverley. “I daur ye to touch him," spreading abroad her 

1 gruel. ^ stupid. 


86 


WAVERLEY. 


long and muscular fingers, garnished with claws which a 
vulture might have envied. Til set mj ten commandments 
in the face o'* the first loon that lays a finger on him.'’^ 

Waverley meditated a retreat, but his horse was nowhere 
to' be seen. At length he observed at some distance his faith- 
ful attendant, Ebenezer, who, as soon as he had perceived 
the turn matters were likely to take, had withdrawn both 
horses from the press, and, mounted on the one and holding 
the other, answered the loud and repeated calls of Waverley 
for his horse. Na, na ! if ye are nae friend to kirk and the 
king, and are detained as siccan a person, ye maun answer to 
honest men of the country for breach of contract ; and I 
maun keep the naig and the walise for damage and expense, 
in respect my horse and mysell will lose to-morrow^s day^s 
wark, besides the afternoon preaching. 

Edward, out of patience, hemmed in and hustled by the 
rabble on every side, and every moment expecting personal 
violence, resolved to try measures of intimidation, and at 
length drew a pocket-pistol, threatening, on the one hand, to 
shoot whomsoever dared to stop him, and, on the other, men- 
acing Ebenezer with a similar doom if he stirred a foot with 
the horses. The levy en masse ^ of Cairnvreckan would there- 
fore probably have given way had not the Vulcan of the 
village rushed at him with the red-hot bar of iron with such 
determination as made the discharge of his pistol an act of 
self-defence. The unfortunate man fell ; and while Edward, 
thrilled with a natural horror at the incident, neither had 
presence of mind to unsheathe his sword nor to draw his 
remaining pistol, the populace threw themselves upon him, 
disarmed him, and were about to use him with great violence 
when the appearance of a venerable clergyman, the pastor of 
the parish, put a curb on their fury. 

Mr. Morton had been alarmed by the discharge of the pistol 
and the increasing hubbub around the smithy. His first at- 

1 crowdt 


AN EXAMINATION. 


87 


tention, after he had directed the bystanders to detain Waver- 
ley, was turned to the body of Mucklewrath, over which his 
wife, in a revulsion of feeling, was weeping and howling in a 
state little short of distraction. On raising up the smith, the 
first discovery was that he was alive ; and the next that he 
was likely to live as long as if he had never heard the report of 
a pistol in his life. He had made a narrow escape, however; 
the bullet had grazed his head and stunned him for a moment 
or two. He now arose to demand vengeance on the person 
of Waverley, and with difficulty acquiesced in the proposal of 
Mr. Morton that he should be carried before the Laird, as 
a justice of peace, and placed at his disposal. 

All controversy being thus laid aside, Waverley, escorted 
by the whole inhabitants of the village who were not bed- 
ridden, was conducted to the house of Oairnvreckan, which 
was about half a mile distant. 


CHAPTER XXIL 

AN EXAMINATION. 

Major Melville of Oairnvreckan received our hero with 
civility, which the equivocal circumstances wherein Edward 
was placed rendered constrained. 

The nature of the smithes hurt was inquired into, and, as 
the injury was likely to prove trifiing, the Major conceived 
he might dismiss that matter on AYaverley^s depositing in his 
hands a small sum for the benefit of the wounded person. 

could wish, sir,"^ continued the Major, ""that my duty 
terminated here ; hut it is necessary that we should have some 
further inquiry into the cause of your journey through the 
country at this distracted time.^^ 

. Mr. Ebenezer Cruickshanks now stood forth, and communi- 
cated to the magistrate all he knew or suspected. The horse 


88 


WAVERLEY. 


upon which Edward rode he knew to belong to Vich Ian 
Vohr, though he dared not tax Edward^s former attendant 
with the fact, lest he should have his house and stables burnt 
over his head some night by that godless gang, the Mac- 
Pvors. 

Major Melville then commanded the villagers to return 
to their homes, excepting two, who officiated as constables. 
The apartment was thus cleared of every person but Mr. 
Morton, whom the Major invited to remain ; a clerk, and 
Waverley himself. There ensued a painful and embarrassed 
pause, till Major Melville, often consulting a paper or 
memorandum which he held in his hand, requested to know 
his napie. 

Edward Waverley. 

I thought so ; late of the dragoons, and nephew of 

Sir Edward Waverley of Waverley-Honour 
“ The same.^^ 

Young gentleman, I am extremely sorry that this pain- 
ful duty has fallen to my lot.^^ 

^‘Duty, Major Melville, renders apologies superfluous.'’^ 

The charge, Mr. Waverley, I grieve to say, affects your 
character both as a soldier and a subject. In the former 
capacity you are charged with spreading mutiny and rebel- 
lion among the men you commanded, and setting them the 
example of desertion. The civil crime of which you stand 
accused is that of high treason and levying war against the 
king.'” 

^^And by what authority am I detained to reply to such 
heinous calumnies ? 

By one which you must not dispute, nor I disobey.'’^ 

It is a very painful part of this painful business,"" said 
Major Melville, after a pause, ^^that I must necessarily re- 
quest to see such papers as you have on your person."" 

You shall, sir, Avithout reserve,"" said Edward, throwing 
his pocket-book and memorandums upon the table. 


AN EXAMINATION. 


89 


Major Melville then proceeded in his investigation, dictat- 
ing the import of the questions and answers to the amanu- 
ensis. 

Did Mr. Waverley know one Humphry Houghton, a 
non-commissioned officer in Gardiner's dragoons ? " 
^‘Certainly ; he was sergeant of my troop." 

Exactly. You used through this man," answered Major 
Melville, “ to communicate with such of your troop as were 
recruited upon Waverley-Honour ?" 

Certainly ; the poor fellows looked up to me in any of 
their little distresses, and naturally made their countryman 
and sergeant their spokesman on such occasions." 

Sergeant Houghton's influence," continued the Major, 
extended, then, particularly over those soldiers who fol- 
lowed you to the regiment from your uncle's estate ? " 

Surely ; but what is that to the present purpose ?" 

‘^To that I am just coming. H9,ve you, since leaving the 
regiment, held any correspondence, direct or indirect, with 
this Sergeant Houghton ? " 

! — I hold correspondence with a man of his rank and 
situation ! How, or for what purpose ? " 

That you are to explain. But did you not, for example, 
send to him for some books ? " 

You remind me of a trifling commission," said Waverley, 
which I gave Sergeant Houghton, because my servant could 
not read. I do recollect I bade him, by letter, send some 
books to me at Tully-Veolan." 

Were there not, Mr. Waverley, treasonable tracts and 
pamphlets among them ?" 

There were some political treatises, into which I hardly 
looked ; they seemed to be dull compositions." 

They were written," continued the persevering inquirer, 
by a Mr. Pembroke, the author of two treasonable works, 
of which the manuscripts were found among your bag- 
gage?" 


90 


WAVERLEY. 


But of which, I give you my honour as a gentleman,^^ 
replied Waverley, never read six pages/^ 

am not your judge, Mr. Waverley; your examination 
will be transmitted elsewhere. Do you know a person that 
passes by the name of Wily Will, or Will Euthven ? 

I never heard of such a name till this moment.” 

Did you never through such a person, or any other per- 
son, communicate with Sergeant Humphry Houghton, insti- 
gating him to desert, with as many of his comrades as he 
could seduce to join him, and unite with the Highlanders 
aiid other rebels now in arms under the command of the 
young Pretender ? ” 

I assure you I am not only entirely guiltless of the plot 
you have laid to my charge, hut I detest it from the very 
bottom of my soul.” 

But, if I am rightly informed, your time was spent, 
during your absence from the regiment, between the house 
of Fergus Mac -Ivor and that of Mr. Brad war dine of Brad- 
ward ine ?” 

do not mean to disguise it ; but I do deny, most reso- 
lutely, being privy to any of their designs against the 
government.” 

You do not, I presume, intend to deny that you at- 
tended your host Glennaquoich to a rendezvous, where, 
under a pretence of a general hunting match, most of the 
accomplices of his treason were assembled to concert meas- 
ures for taking arms ? ” 

I acknowledge having been at such a meeting,” said Wa- 
verley ; "" but I neither heard nor saw anything which could 
give it the character you affix to it.” 

From thence you proceeded,” continued the magistrate, 
with Glennaquoich and a part of his clan to join the army 
of the young Pretender, and returned, after having paid 
your homage to him, to discipline and arm the remainder, 
and unite them to his bands on their way southward ? ” 


AN EXAMINATION. 


91 


I never went with Glennaquoich on such an errand. I 
never so much as heard that the person whom you mention 
was in the country.^^ 

He then detailed the history of his misfortune at the hunt- 
ing match, and added, that on his return he found himself 
suddenly deprived of his commission, and did not deny that 
he then first observed symptoms which indicated a disposi- 
tion in the Highlanders to take arms ; but added that, hav- 
ing no inclination to join their cause, he was now on his re- 
turn to his native country. . 

Permit me another question, Mr. Waverley,^^ said Major 
Melville. Hid you not receive repeated letters from your 
commanding officer, warning you and commanding you to 
return to your post, and acquainting you with the use made 
of your name to spread discontent among your soldiers ? 

I never did. Major Melville. One letter, indeed, I re- 
ceived from him, containing a civil intimation of his wish 
that I would employ my leave of absence otherwise than in 
constant residence at Bradwardine, as to which, I own, I 
thought he was not called on to interfere ; and finally, I re- 
ceived, on the same day on which I observed myself super- 
seded in the Gazette, a second letter from Colonel Gardiner, 
commanding me to join the regiment, an order which I re- 
ceived too late to be obeyed. 

Mr. Waverley,'’^ said the Major, at length, I am afraid 
I must sign a warrant for detaining you in custody, but this 
house shall for the present he your prison. 

Our hero bowed and withdrew, under guard of the officers 
of justice, to a small but handsome room, where, declining 
all offers of food or wine, he flung himself on the bed, and, 
stupified by these harassing events, he sunk into a deep and 
heavy slumber. 


92 


WAVERLEY. 


CHAPTER XXIII. 

A COKFIDANT. 

Wave RLE Y awoke in the morning from troubled dreams 
and unrefreshing slumbers to a full consciousness of the hor- 
rors of his situation. How it might terminate he knew not. 
He might be delivered up to military law, which, in the 
midst of civil war, was not likely to be scrupulous in the 
choice of its victims or the quality of the evidence. Xor did 
he feel much more comfortable at the thoughts of a trial be- 
fore a Scottish court of justice, where he knew the laws and 
forms differed in many respects from those of England, and 
had been taught to believe, however erroneously, that the 
liberty and rights of the subject were less carefully pro- 
tected. 

While Edward was ruminating on these painful subjects, 
Mr. Morton availed himself of Major Melville^s permission to 
pay him an early visit. 

I do not intrude myself on your confidence, Mr. Waver- 
ley,'’^ he said, ^"for the purpose of learning any circum- 
stances the knowledge of which can be prejudicial either 
to yourself or to others ; but my earnest wish is that you 
would intrust me with any particulars which could lead to 
your exculpation. I can solemnly assure you they will be 
deposited with a faithful agent. 

But,^^ said Waverley, I cannot perceive why I should 
trouble you with a detail of particulars out of which, after 
revolving them as carefully as possible in my recollection, 
I find myself unable to explain much of what is charged 
against me. I know, indeed, that I am innocent, but I 
hardly see how I can hope to prove myself so.” 

It is for that very reason, Mr. Waverley,” said the 
clergyman, ""that I venture to solicit your confidence. Your 


A CONFIDANT. 


93 


situation will, I fear, preclude your taking those active steps 
for recovering intelligence or tracing imposture which I 
would willingly undertake in your behalf ; and if you are not 
benefited by my exertions, at least they cannot be prejudicial 
to you.^^ 

Waverley, after a few minutes^ refiection, was convinced 
that his reposing confidence in Mr. Morton could hurt nei- 
ther Mr. Bradwardine nor Fergus Mac-Ivor, both of whom 
had openly assumed arms against the government, and that it 
might possibly be of some service to himself. He therefore 
ran briefiy over most of the events with which the reader is 
already acquainted. 

Mr. Morton seemed particularly struck with the account of 
Waverley^s visit to Donald Bean Lean. I am glad,^^ he said, 
^^you did not mention this circumstance to the Major. It is 
capable of great misconstruction on the part of those who do 
not consider the power of curiosity and the influence of ro- 
mance as motives of youthful conduct. This man Bean Lean 
is renowned through the country as a sort of Eobin Hood, and 
the stories which are told of his address and enterprise are the 
common tales of the winter fireside. He certainly possesses 
talents beyond the rude sphere in which he moves ; and he 
will probably attempt to distinguish himself during the period 
of these unhappy commotions. 

Edward now inquired if Mr. Morton knew what was likely 
to be his destination. 

Stirling Castle,^’ replied his friend ; and so far I am well 
pleased for your sake, for the governor is a man of liouonr 
and humanity. But I am more doubtful of your treatment 
upon the road ; Major Melville is involuntarily obliged to 
intrust the custody of your person to another. 

Who is to have the charge of so important a state prisoner 
as I am ? 

I believe a person called Gilfillan, one of the sect who are 
termed Cameronians.^^ 


94 WAVERLEY. 

I never heard of them before/^ 

They claim/^ said the clergyman, to represent the more 
strict and severe Presbyterians, who, in Charles Second’s and 
James Second’s days, refused to profit by the Toleration, or 
Indulgence,^ as it was called, which was extended to others of 
that religion. They held conventicles in the open fields, and 
were treated with great violence and cruelty by the Scottish 
government. They take their name from their leader, Kichard 
Cameron. I would willingly speak to Gilfillan in your be- 
half; but, having deeply imbibed all the prejudices of his 
sect, and being of the same fierce disposition, he would pay 
little regard to my remonstrances. And now, farewell, my 
young friend ; for the present I must not weary out the 
Major’s indulgence, that I may obtain his permission to visit 
you again in the course of the day.” 


CHAPTER XXIV. 

THIiq-QS MEND A LITTLE — A VOLUNTEER SIXTY YEARS SINCE. 

About noon Mr. Morton returned and brought an invita- 
tion from Major Melville that Mr. Waverley would honour 
him with his company to dinner, notwithstanding the un- 
pleasant affair which detained him at Cairn vreck an. 

The meeting at first was stiff and formal enough. But 
Edward, having accepted the invitation, and his mind being 
really soothed and relieved by the kindness of Morton, held 
himself bound to behave with ease, though he could not affect 
cordiality. The Major told his old campaign stories, and 

1 The reference here is to the reaction of the Cavalier adherents of Charles Second in 
1660 and thereafter, against the grimness and moroseness of the Puritans. Charles had 
been aided in recovering his throne by certain of the Presbyterians of the time. To them 
he promised protection from interference or persecution. This “ Declaration of Indul- 
gence,” as it was called, was renewed by James II. 


THINGS MEND A LITTLE. 


95 


displayed much knowledge of men and manners. Mr. Morton 
had an internal fund of placid and quiet gaiety, which seldom 
failed to enliven any small party in which he found, himself 
pleasantly seated. Waverley, whose life was a dream, gave 
ready way to the predominating impulse and became the most 
lively of the party. The trio were engaged in a very lively 
discourse, when the sound of a drum was heard at some dis- 
tance. The Major, who, in the glee of an old soldier, had 
forgot the duties of a magistrate, cursed, with a muttered 
military oath, the circumstances which recalled him to his 
official functions. He rose and went towards the window, 
which commanded a very near view of the highroad, and he 
was followed by his guests. 

On hearing the unwelcome sound of the drum. Major Mel- 
ville hastily opened a sashed door and stepped out upon a sort 
of terrace which divided his house from the highroad from 
which the martial music proceeded. Waverley and his new 
friend followed him. They soon recognised in solemn march, 
first, the performer upon the drum ; secondly, a large fiag of 
four compartments, on which were inscribed the words, Cov- 
enant, Kirk, King, Kingdoms. The person who was hon- 
oured with this charge was followed by the commander of the 
party, a thin, dark, rigid-looking man, about sixty years old. 

The group of about thirty men who followed this com- 
mander was of a motley description. They were in ordinary 
Lowland dresses, of difi^erent colours, which, contrasted with 
the arms they bore, gave them a mobbish appearance. In 
front were a few who apparently partook of their leader’s en- 
thusiasm, men obviously to be feared in a combat where their 
natural courage was exalted by religious zeal. Others puffed 
and strutted, filled with the importance of carrying arms and 
all the novelty of their situation, while the rest, apparently 
fatigued with their march, dragged their limbs listlessly along. 

Greeting Mr. Gilfillan civilly, the Major requested to know 
if he could undertake the charge of a state prisoner as far as 


96 


WAVERLEY. 


Stirling Castle. Yea/^ was the concise reply of the Came- 
ronian leader. 

^^But your escort, Mr. G-ilfillan, is not so strong as I ex- 
pected/^ said Major Melville. 

^‘Some of the people/'’ replied Gilfillan, ^Minngered and 
were athirst by the way, and tarried until their poor souls 
were refreshed with the word.'’'’ 

^^lam sorry, sir,'’^ replied the Major, ^‘^you did not trust 
to your refreshing your men at Cairnvreckan ; whatever my 
house contains is at the command of persons employed in the 
service. 

It was not of creature-comforts I spake, answered the 
Covenanter, regarding Major Melville with something like a 
smile of contempt; ‘‘^howbeit, I thank you ; but the people 
remained waiting upon the precious Mr. Jabesh Rentowel for 
the out-pouring of the afternoon exhortation.'’^ 

^^Sir,^’ said the Major, ^‘as you are to take charge of this 
gentleman to Stirling, and deliver him, with these papers, 
into the hands of Governor Blakeney, I beseech yon to ob- 
serve some rules of military discipline upon your march. 
For example, I would advise you to keep your men more closely 
together, and that each in his march should cover his file- 
leader, instead of straggling like geese upon a common. One 
thing I would have you well aware of, that you are to treat 
this gentleman, your prisoner, with no rigour nor incivility, 
and are to subject him to no other restraint than is necessary 
for his security.” 

I have looked into my commission,” said Mr. Gilfillan, 
subscribed by a worthy and professing nobleman, William, 
Earl of Glencairn ; nor do I find it therein set down that I am 
to receive any charges or commands anent my doings from 
Major William Melville of Cairnvreckan.” 

Major Melville reddened even to the well-powdered ears 
which appeared beneath his neat military side-curls. Mr. 
Gilfillan,” he answered, with some asperity, ‘^1 beg ten thou- 


AN INCIDENT. 


97 


sand pardons for interfering with a person of your importance. 
I have done, and have only once more to recommend this 
gentleman to your civility as well as to your custody. Mr. 
Waverley, I am truly sorry we should part in this way ; but 
I trust, when you are again in this country, I may have 
an opportunity to render Cairnvreckan more agreeable than 
circumstances have permitted on this occasion.'’^ 

So saying, he shook our hero by the hand. Morton also 
took an affectionate farewell, and Waverley, having mounted 
his horse, with a musketeer leading it by the bridle and a file 
upon each side to prevent his escape, set forward upon the 
march with Gilfillan and his party. Through the little vil- 
lage they were accompanied with ‘the shouts of the children, 
who cried out, ^^Eh ! see to the Southland gentleman that^s 
gaun to be hanged for shooting lang John Muckle wrath, the 
smith 


CHAPTER XXV. 

AN INCIDENT. 

It was about four o^clock of a delightful autumn after- 
noon that Mr. Gilfillan commenced his march, in hopes, al- 
though Stirling was eighteen miles distant, to reach it that 
evening. He therefore put forth his strength, and marched 
stoutly along at the head of his followers, eyeing our hero 
from time to time, as if he longed to enter into controversy 
with him. 

At length his attention was attracted by a pedlar who had 
joined the march from a cross-road. 

And what may ye be, friend ? said the gifted Gilfillan. 

A puir pedlar, thaPs bound for Stirling, and craves the 
protection of your honour^s party in these kittle * times. 

^"Friend,” said Gilfillan, with a more complacent voice 


7 


* ticklish. 


98 


WAVERLEY. 


than he had hitherto used, honour not me. I do not go 
out to market-towns to have herds and cottars and burghers 
pull off their bonnets to me as they do to Major Melville o" 
Cairnvreckan, and ca'’ me laird or captain. No ; my sma^ 
means, whilk are not aboon twenty thousand rnerk,* have had 
the blessing of increase, but the pride of my heart has not 
increased with them.'’^ 

^^Ah,” said the pedlar, have seen your land about 
Mauchlin. A fertile spot ! your lines have fallen in pleasant 
places ! And siccan ^ a breed o^ cattle is not in ony laird^’s 
land in Scotland.” 

Ye say right, — ye say right, friend,” retorted Gilfillan 
eagerly, for he was not inaccessible to flattery upon this sub- 
ject, — ye say right ; they are the real Lancashire, and 
there^s no the like o'’ them even at the mains o^ Kilmaurs ” ; 
and he then entered into a discussion of their excellences, to 
which our readers will probably be as indifferent as our hero. 

The rays of the sun were lingering on the very verge of 
the horizon as the party ascended a hollow and somewhat 
steep path which led to the summit of a rising ground. A 
thicket of stunted brushwood crowned the hill up which 
they ascended. The foremost of the band, being the stout- 
est and most active, had pushed on, and having surmounted 
the ascent, were out of ken for the present. Gilfillan, with 
the pedlar and the small party who were Waverley^s more 
immediate guard, were near the top of the ascent, and the 
remainder straggled after them at a considerable interval. 

Such was the situation of matters when the pedlar, miss- 
ing, as he said, a little doggie which belonged to him, began 
to halt and whistle for the animal. This signal, repeated 
more than once, was answered in an unexpected manner ; 
for six or eight stout Highlanders, who lurked among the 
copse and brushwood, sprung into the hollow way and began 
to lay about them with their claymores. Gilfillan, unappalled 

1 A merk was an old Scottish coin worth 13s. 4cZ. 


2 such. 


WAVERLEY IS STILL IN DISTRESS. 


99 


at this undesirable apparition, cried out manfully, The 
sword of the Lord and Gideon ! and was drawing his broad- 
sword, when, behold ! the pedlar, snatching a musket from 
the person who was next him, bestowed the butt of it with 
such emphasis on his head, that he was forthwith levelled to 
the ground. In the confusion which ensued the horse which 
bore our hero was shot by one of Gilfillan^s party, as he dis- 
charged his firelock at random. ' Waverley fell with; and 
indeed under, the animal, and sustained some severe con- 
tusions. But he was almost instantly extricated from the 
fallen steed by two Highlanders, who, each seizing him by 
the arm, hurried him away from the scuffle and from the 
highroad. They ran with great speed, half supporting and 
half dragging our hero, who could, however, distinguish a 
few dropping shots fired about the spot which he had left, 
but the convoy, apprehensive of a second ambush, did not 
make any serious effort to recover their prisoner, judging it 
more wise to proceed on their journey to Stirling, carrying 
with them their wounded captain and comrades. 


CHAPTER XXVI. 

WAVERLEY IS STILL IN DISTRESS. 

The velocity, and indeed violence, with which Waverley 
was hurried along nearly deprived him of sensation ; for the 
injury he had received from his fall prevented him from aid- 
ing himself effectually. When this was observed by his con- 
ductors, they called to their aid two or three others of the 
party, and, swathing our hero's body in one of their plaids, 
divided his weight by that means among them, and trans- 
ported him at the same rapid rate as before, without any 
exertion of his own. They spoke little, and that in Gaelic ; 
and did not slacken their pace till they had run nearly two 


LofC. 


100 


WAVERLEY. 


miles, when they abated their extreme rapidity, but contin- 
ued still to walk very fast. 

Our hero now endeavoured to address them, hut was only 
answered with Cha n*eil Beurl ’ agam/^ i. e. I have no 
English. 

The twilight had given place to moonshine when the party 
halted upon the brink of a precipitous glen, which, as partly 
enlightened by the moonbeams, seemed full of trees and 
tangled brushwood. Two of the Highlanders dived into it 
by a small footpath, as if fb explore its recesses, and one of 
them returning in a few minutes, said something to his com- 
panions, who instantly raised their burden and bore him, 
with great attention and care, down the narrow and abrupt 
descent. 

At the bottom of the descent the party again stopped 
before a small and rudely constructed hovel. The door was 
open, and there was no appearance of a floor of any kind ; 
the roof seemed rent in several places ; the walls were com- 
posed of loose stones and turf, and the thatch of branches of 
trees. The fire was in the centre, and filled the whole wig- 
wam with smoke, which escaped as much through the door 
as by means of a circular aperture in the roof. An old High- 
land sibyl, ^ the only inhabitant of this forlorn mansion, ap- 
peared busy in the preparation of some food. By the light 
which the fire afforded Waverley could discover that his 
attendants were not of the clan of Ivor, for Fergus was par- 
ticularly strict in requiring from his followers that they 
should wear the tartan striped in the mode peculiar to their 
race. 

The only furniture excepting a washing-tub and a wooden 
press " sorely decayed, was a large wooden bed, planked, as 
is usual, all around, and opening by a sliding panel. In this 
recess the Highlanders deposited Waverley, after he had by 

* A woman supposed to have the gift of prophecy. The term is borrowed from 
Latin literature. 2 an upright case or closet. 


WAVERLEY IS STILL IN DISTRESS. 


101 


signs declined any refreshment. His slumbers were broken 
and unrefreshing ; strange visions passed before his eyes, and 
it required constant and reiterated efforts of mind to dispel 
them. Shivering, violent headache, and shooting pains in 
his limbs succeeded these symptoms ; and in the morning it 
was evident to his Highland attendants that Waverley was 
quite unfit to travel. 

After a long consultation among themselves, six of the 
party left the hut with their arms, leaving behind an old and 
a young man. The former addressed Waverley, and bathed 
the contusions, which swelling and livid colour now made 
conspicuous. 

The fever which accompanied the injuries he had sustained 
did not abate till the third day, when it gave way to the care 
of his attendants and the strength of his constitution, and he 
could now raise himself in his bed, though not without pain. 
He observed, however, that there was a great disinclination 
on the part of those who attended him to permit the door of 
the bed to be left open, so that he might amuse himself with 
observing their motions ; and at length, after Waverley had 
repeatedly drawn open and they had as frequently shut the 
hatchway of his cage, the old gentleman put an end to the 
contest by securing it on the outside with a nail. 

While musing upon the cause of this contradictory spirit in 
persons whose conduct intimated no purpose of plunder, it 
occurred to our hero that, during the worst crisis of his ill- 
ness, a female figure, younger than his old Highland nurse, 
had appeared to flit around his couch. His suspicions Avere 
confirmed when, attentively listening, he often heard, in the 
course of the day, the voice of another female conversing in 
Avhispers with his attendant. Who could it be ? And why 
should she apparently desire concealment ? Fancy immedi- 
ately roused herself and turned to Flora Mac-Ivor. 

Having nothing else to amuse his solitude, he employed 
himself in contriving some plan to gratify his curiosity. At 


102 


WAVERLEY. 


length, upon accurate examination, the infirm state of his 
wooden prison-house appeared to supply the means, for out 
of a spot which was somewhat decayed he was able to extract 
a nail. Through this minute aperture he could perceive a 
female form Avrapped in a plaid, in the act of conversing with 
Janet, as the old woman before mentioned was named. But 
the form Avas not that of Flora, nor was the face visible ; and, 
to croAvn his vexation, while he laboured Avith the nail to 
enlarge the hole, a slight noise betrayed his purpose, and 
tlie object of his curiosity instantly disappeared ; nor, so far 
as he could observe, did she again revisit the cottage. 

All precautions to blockade his view were from that time 
abandoned, and he Avas not only permitted, but assisted to 
rise, and quit his couch of confinement. But he was not 
allowed to leave the hut ; for the young Highlander had now 
rejoined his senior, and one or otlier Avas constantly on the 
watch. AY believer AVaverley approached the cottage door 
the sentinel upon duty civilly, but resolutely, placed himself 
against it and opposed bis exit, accompanying his action Avith 
signs Avhich seemed to imply there was danger in the attempt 
and an enemy in the neighbourhood. 

Upon the evening of the seventh day the door of the hut 
suddenly opened, and two Highlanders entered, whom AYaver- 
ley recognised as having been a part of his original escort to 
this cottage. They conversed for a short time with the old 
man and his companion, and then made AYaverley understand, 
by very significant signs, that he was to prepare to accompany 
them. AYith a throbbing mixture of hope, aAve, and anxiety, 
AYaverley Avatched the group before him, as those who Avere 
just arrived snatched a hasty meal, and the others assumed 
their arms and made brief preparations for their departure. 

As he sat in the smoky hut, at some distance from the fire, 
around AAdiich the others Avere crowded, he felt a gentle pres- 
sure upon his arm. He looked round ; it Avas Alice, the 
daughter of Donald Bean Lean. She showed him a packet of 


A BLIND JOUKNEY. 


103 


papers in such a manner that the motion was remarked by no 
one else, put her finger for a second to her lips, and passed 
on, as if to assist old Janet in packing Waverley^s clothes in 
his portmanteau. It was obviously her wish that he should 
not seem to recognise her ; yet she repeatedly looked back at 
him, as an opportunity occurred of doing so unobserved, and 
when she saw that he remarked what she did, she folded the 
packet with great address and speed in one of his shirts, which 
she deposited in the portmanteau. 

Here then was fresh food for conjecture. Was Alice his 
unknown warden, the tutelar genius that watched his bed 
during his sickness ? Was he in the hands of her father ? and 
if so, what was his purpose ? Spoil, his usual object, seemed 
in this case neglected ; for not only Waverley^’s property was 
restored, but his purse, which might have tempted this pro- 
fessional plunderer, had been all along suffered to remain in 
his possession. All this perhaps the packet might explain. 

The young Highlander was repeatedly despatched by his 
comrades as if to collect intelligence. At length, when he had 
returned for the third or fourth time, the whole party arose 
and made signs to our hero to accompany them. Before his 
departure, however, he shook hands with old Janet. 

God bless you ! God prosper you. Captain Waverley ! 
said Janet, in good Lowland Scotch, though he had never 
hitherto heard her utter a syllable, save in Gaelic. 


CHAPTER XXVII. 

A BLIND JOURNEY. 

There was a moment's pause when the whole party had got 
out of the hut ; and the Highlander who assumed the com- 
mand, and who, in Waverley's awakened recollection, seemed 
to be the same tall figure who had acted as Donald Bean 


104 


WAVERLEY. 


Lean^s lieutenant, by whispers and signs imposed the strictest 
silence. He delivered to Edward a sword and steel pistol, 
and, pointing up the track, laid his hand on the hilt of his 
own claymore, as if to make him sensible they might have 
occasion to use force to make good their passage. He then 
placed himself at the head of the party, who moved up the 
pathway in single or Indian file, Waverley being placed nearest 
to their leader. He moved with great precaution, as if to 
avoid giving any alarm, and halted as soon as he came to the 
verge of the ascent. Waverley was soon sensible of the reason, 
for he heard at no great distance an English sentinel call out 

All’s well.” The heavy sound snnk on the night- wind down 
the woody glen, and was answered by the echoes of its banks. 
A second, third, and fourth time the signal was repeated 
fainter and fainter, as if at a greater and greater distance. It 
was obvious that a party of soldiers were near, and upon their 
guard, though not sufficiently so to detect men skilful in every 
art of predatory warfare, like those with whom he now watched 
their ineffectual precautions. 

When these sounds had died upon the silence of the night, 
the Highlanders began their march swiftly, yet with the most 
cautions silence. Waverley had little time for observation, 
and could only discern that they passed at some distance from 
a large building, in the windows of which a light or two yet 
seemed to twinkle. A little farther on the leading High- 
lander (Duncan Duroch by name) snuffed the wind like a 
setting spaniel, and then made a signal to his party again to 
halt. He stooped down upon all fours, wrapped up in his plaid, 
so as to be scarce distinguishable from the heathy ground on 
which he moved, and advanced in this posture to reconnoitre. 
In a short time he returned, and dismissed his attendants ex- 
cepting one ; and, intimating to Waverley that he must imi- 
tate his cautious mode of proceeding, all three crept forward 
on hands and knees. 

After proceeding a greater way in this inconvenient man- 


A BLIND JOURNEY. 


105 


ner than was at all comfortable to his knees and shins, Wav- 
erley perceived the smell of smoke. It proceeded from the 
corner of a low and ruinous sheep-fold. Close by this low 
wall the Highlander guided Waverley, and, in order prob- 
ably to make him sensible of his danger, or perhaps to obtain 
the full credit of his own dexterity, he intimated to him that 
he might raise his head so as to peep into the sheep-fold. 
Waverley did so, and beheld an outpost of four or five sol- 
diers lying by their watch-fire. They were all asleep except 
the sentinel, who paced backwards and forwards with his fire- 
lock on his shoulder, which glanced red in the light of the fire 
as he crossed and recrossed before it in his short walk, cast- 
ing his eye frequently to that part of the heavens from which 
the moon, hitherto obscured by mist, seemed now about to 
make her appearance. 

In the course of a minute or two, by one of those sudden 
changes of atmosphere incident to a mountainous country, a 
breeze arose and swept before it the clouds wdiicli had covered 
the horizon, and the night planet poured her full effulgence 
upon a wide and blighted heath, skirted indeed with copse- 
wood and stunted trees in the quarter from which they had 
come, but open and bare to the observation of the sentinel 
in that to which their course tended. The w^all of the sheep- 
fold indeed concealed them as they lay, but any advance 
beyond its shelter seemed impossible without certain dis- 
covery. 

The Highlander eyed the blue vault, but far from blessing 
the light he muttered a Gaelic curse upon the unseasonable 
splendour. He looked anxiously around for a few minutes, 
and then apparently took his resolution. Leaving his atten- 
dant with Waverley, after motioning to Edward to remain 
quiet, and giving his comrades directions in a brief whisper, 
he retreated, favoured by the irregularity of the ground, in 
the same direction and in the same manner as they had ad- 
vanced. Edward, turning his head after him, could perceive 


106 


WAVERLEY. 


him crawling on all fours with the dexterity of an Indian, 
availing himself of every bush and inequality to escape obser- 
vation, and never passing over the more exposed parts of his 
track until the sentinels back was turned from him. At 
length he reached the thickets and underwood which partly 
covered the moor in that direction, and probably extended to 
the verge of the glen where Waverley had been so long an 
inhabitant. The Highlander disappeared, but it was only 
for a few minutes, for he suddenly issued forth from a dif- 
ferent part of tlie thicket, and, advancing boldly upon the 
open heath as if to invite discovery, he levelled his piece and 
fired at the sentinel. A wound in the arm proved a dis- 
agreeable interruption to the poor fellow^s meteorological 
observations. He returned the fire ineffectually, and his 
comrades, starting up at the alarm, advanced alertly towards 
the spot from which the first shot had issued. The High- 
lander, after giving them a full view of his person, dived 
among the thickets, for his ruse had now perfectly succeeded. 

While the soldiers pursued the cause of their disturbance in 
one direction, Waverley, adopting the hint of his remaining 
attendant, made the best of his speed in that which his guide 
originally intended to pursue, and which now (the attention 
of the soldiers being drawn to a different quarter) was unob- 
served and unguarded. When they had run about a quarter 
of a mile, the brow of a rising ground which they had sur- 
mounted concealed them from further risk of observation. 
They still heard, however, at a distance the shouts of the 
soldiers as they hallooed to each other upon the heath, and 
they could also hear the distant roll of a drum beating to arms 
in the same direction. But these hostile sounds were now far 
in the rear, and died away upon the breeze as they rapidly 
proceeded. 

When they had walked about half an hour they came to a 
hollow, where they found several Highlanders, with a horse 
or two. Waverley was then mounted upon one of the horses, 


A BLIND JOUBNEY. 


107 


a change which the fatigue of the night rendered exceedingly 
acceptable. His portmanteau was placed on another pony. 
Duncan, who had meantime returned in high spirits from 
baffling the outpost, mounted a third, and they set forward 
at a round pace, accompanied by their escort. At the dawn 
of morning they attained the banks of a rapid river. 

On the opposite bank of the riyer, and partly surrounded 
by a winding of its stream, stood a large and massive castle, 
the half-ruined turrets of which were already glittering in 
the first rays of the sun. Upon one of these turrets a sentinel 
watched, whose bonnet and plaid streaming in the wind 
declared him to be a Highlander, -as a broad white en- 
sign, which floated from another tower, announced that the 
garrison was held by the insurgent adherents of the House of 
Stuart. 

Passing hastily through a small and mean town, the party 
crossed an ancient and narrow bridge of several arches ; 
turning to the left up an avenue of huge old sycamores, 
Waverley found himself in front of a huge iron-grated door, 
which formed the exterior defence of the gateway, and was 
already thrown back to receive them; and a second, heavily 
constructed of oak and studded thickly with iron nails, being 
next opened, admitted them into the interior courtyard. A 
gentleman, dressed in the Highland garb and having a 
white cockade in his bonnet, assisted Waverley to dismount 
from his horse, and with much courtesy bid him welcome to 
the castle. 

The governor, for so we must term him, having conducted 
Waverley to a half-ruinous apartment, and having offered 
him any refreshment which he desired, was then about to 
leave him. 

Will you not add to your civilities,’^ said Waverley, ^^by 
having the kindness to inform me where I am, and whether 
or not I am to consider myself as a prisoner ? ” 

I am not at liberty to be so explicit upon this subject as 


108 


WAVERLEY. 


I could wish. Briefly, however, you are in the Castle of Doune, 
in the district of Menteith, and in no danger whatever. 

And how am I assured of that ? 

By the honour of Donald Stewart, governor of the gar- 
rison, and lieutenant-colonel in the service of his Koyal High- 
ness Prince Charles Edward.'’^ 

So saying, he hastily left the apartment, as if to avoid 
further discussion. 

Exhausted by the fatigues of the night, our hero now 
threw himself upon the bed, and was in a few minutes fast 
asleep. 

When Waverley awakened from his repose, the day was far 
advanced, and he began to feel that he had passed many hours 
without food. This was soon supplied in form of a copious 
breakfast. After four or five hours of solitude had elapsed, 
the trampling of horses was heard in the courtyard, and a 
servant acquainted Waverley an instant afterwards that his 
horse was ready. 

Upon this hint he descended into the courtyard, and found 
a trooper holding a saddled horse, on which he mounted and 
sallied from the portal of Doune Castle, attended by about 
a score of armed men on horseback. These had less the 
appearance of regular soldiers than of individuals who had 
suddenly assumed arms from some pressing motive of unex- 
pected emergency. But they were stout, hardy-looking fel- 
lows, and might be individually formidable as irregular 
cavalry. Their lieutenant, an elderly man, had much the air 
of a low sportsman and boon companion. His cocked hat 
was set knowingly upon one side of his head, and while he 
whistled the Bob of Dumblain,'’^ under the influence of 
half a mutchkin^ of brandy, he seemed to trot merrily for- 
ward, with a happy indifference to the state of the country, 
the conduct of the party, the end of the journey, and all 
sublunary matters whatever. 

1 an English pint. 


A BLIND JOURNEY. 


109 


From this wight, who now and then dropped alongside of 
his horse, Waverley hoped to acquire some information. 

Pray, sir, if it be not too great a freedom, may I beg to 
know where we are going just now 

A fule^s errand, I fear,^^ answered this communicative 
personage. 

^^In that case,^’ said Waverley, determined not to spare 
civility, should have thought a person of your appearance 
would not have been found on the road.'’^ 

^^Vera true, vera true, sir,” replied the officer, ^^but every 
why has its wherefore. Ye maun ken,i the laird there bought 
a^ thir beasts f rae me to munt his troop, and agreed to pay for 
them according to the necessities and prices of the time. But 
then he hadna the ready penny, and I hae been advised his 
bond will not be worth a boddle ^ against the estate, sae, sir, I 
thought my best chance for payment was e’en to gae out ® 
mysell ; and ye may judge, sir, as I hae dealt a^ my life in 
halters, I think na mickle o' putting my craig^ in peril of a 
St. Johnstone's tippet.''® 

You are not, then, by profession a soldier ?'' said Waver- 
ley. 

But at this point the noble captain checked his horse until 
they came up, and then, without directly appearing to notice 
Edward, said sternly to the lieutenant, I thought, lieuten- 
ant, my orders were preceese, that no one should speak to the 
prisoner ?'' 

The metamorphosed horse-dealer was silenced, of course, and 
slunk to the rear. 

Marching in this manner they reached an eminence, from 
which they could view Edinburgh stretching along the ridgy 
hill which slopes eastward from the Castle. The latter, being 

1 you must know. ^ A copper coin worth the sixtli part of an English penny. 

3 To go out, was, in Scotland, a conventional phrase, meaning to engage in insurrection. 

* neck. 

® That is, a halter. St. John’s Town was another name for Perth, where capital punish- 
ment was inflicted upon criminals of the region roundabout. 


110 


WAVERLEY. 


in a state of siege, or rather of blockade, by the northern 
insurgents, who had already occupied the town for two or three 
days, fired at intervals upon such parties of Highlanders as 
exposed themselves, either on the main street or elsewhere in 
the vicinity of the fortress. 

Ere they approached the city the partial cannonade had 
wholly ceased. The party approached the ancient palace 
of Holyrood, drew up in front of that venerable- pile, and 
delivered Waverley to the custody of a guard of Highlanders, 
whose officer conducted him into the interior of the building. 

A long, low, and ill-proportioned gallery, hung with pic- 
tures, served as a sort of guard chamber to the apartments 
which the adventurous Charles Edward now occupied in the 
palace of his ancestors. Officers, both in the Highland and 
Lowland garb, passed and repassed in haste, or loitered in 
the hall as if waiting for orders. Secretaries were engaged 
in making out passes, musters, and returns. Waverley was 
suffered to remain seated in the recess of a window, unnoticed 
by any one, in anxious refiection upon the crisis of his fate, 
which seemed now rapidly approaching. 


CHAPTER XXVHI. 

AN OLD AND A NEW ACQUAINTANCE. 

While he was deep sunk in his reverie, the rustle of tartans 
was heard behind him. 

Waverley turned, and was warmly embraced by Fergus 
Mac-Ivor. ^‘^A thousand welcomes to Holyrood, once more 
possessed by her legitimate sovereign ! 

Dear Fergus ! said Waverley, eagerly returning his greetr 
ing. It is long since I have heard a friend^’s voice. Where 
is Flora 

Safe, and a triumphant spectator of our success.'’’ 


AN OLD AND A NEW ACQUAINTANCE. 


Ill 


"'In tins place said Waverley. 

" A}^ in this city at least/’ answered liis friend, "and you 
shall see her ; but first you must meet a friend whom you 
little think of, who has been frequent in his inquiries after 
you.” 

Thus saying, he dragged AYaverley by the arm out of the 
guard chamber, and ere he knew where he was conducted, 
Edward found himself in a presence room, fitted up with 
some attempt at royal state. 

A young man, wearing his own fair hair, distinguished by 
the dignity of his mien and the noble expression of his well- 
formed and regular features, advanced out of a circle of mili- 
tary gentlemen and Highland chiefs by whom he was sur- 
rounded. In his easy and graceful manners Waverley after- 
wards thought he could have discovered his high birth and 
rank, although the star on his breast and the embroidered 
garter at his knee had not appeared as its indications. 

" Let me present to your Royal Highness,” said Fergus, 
bowing profoundly 

" The descendant of one of the most ancient and loyal 
families in England,” said the young Chevalier, interrupting 
him. " I beg your pardon for interrupting you, my dear 
Mac-Ivor ; but no master of ceremonies is necessary to pre- 
sent a Waverley to a Stuart.” 

Thus saying, he extended his hand to Edward with the ut- 
most courtesy, who could not, had he desired it, have avoided 
rendering him the homage which seemed due to his rank. 
"I am sorry to understand, Mr. AYaverley, that owing to 
circumstances which have been as yet but ill explained, you 
have suffered some restraint among my followers in Perth- 
shire and on your march here ; but Ave are in such a situation 
that we hardly knoAv our friends, and I am even at this 
moment uncertain whether I can have the pleasure of con- 
sidering Mr. Waverley as among mine.” 

He then paused for an instant ; but before Edward could 


112 


WAVEELEY. 


adjust a suitable reply, the Prince took out a paper and then 
proceeded : I should indeed have no doubts upon this sub- 
ject if I could trust to this proclamation, set forth by the 
friends of the Elector of Hanover, in which they rank Mr. 
Waverley among the nobility and gentry who are menaced 
with the pains of high treason for loyalty to their legitimate 
sovereign. But I desire to gain no adherents save from 
affection and conviction ; and if Mr. Waverley inclines to 
prosecute his journey to the south, or to join the forces of 
the Elector, he shall have my passport and free permission 
to do so ; and I can only regret that my present power will 
not extend to protect him against the probable consequences 
of such a measure. But,^^ continued Charles Edward, after 
another short pause, ^‘if Mr. Waverley should determine to 
embrace a cause which has little to recommend it but its 
justice, and follow a prince who throws himself upon the 
affections of his people to recover the throne of his ancestors 
or perish in the attempt, I can only say, that among these 
nobles and gentlemen he will find worthy associates in a gal- 
lant enterprise, and will follow a master who may be unfor- 
tunate, but, I trust, will never be ungrateful. 

The politic Chieftain of the race of Ivor knew his advan- 
tage in introducing Waverley to this personal interview with 
the royal adventurer. Unaccustomed to the address and 
manners of a polished court, in whi-ch Charles was eminently 
skilful, his words and his kindness penetrated the heart of 
our hero. To be thus personally solicited for assistance by a 
prince whose form and manners, as well as the spirit which 
he displayed in this singular enterprise, answered his ideas 
of a hero of romance ; to be courted by him in the ancient 
halls of his paternal palace, recovered by the sword which he 
was already bending towards other conquests, gave Edward, 
in his own eyes, the dignity and importance which he had 
ceased to consider as his attributes. The time admitted of 
no deliberation, and Waverley, kneeling to Charles Edward, 


AN OLD AND A NEW ACQUAINTANCE. 113 

devoted his heart and sword to the vindication of his 
rights. 

The Prince raised Waverley from the ground and embraced 
him with an expression of thanks too warm not to be genu- 
ine. He also presented Waverley to the various noblemen, 
chieftains, and officers who were about his person as a young 
gentleman of the highest hopes and prospects. 

You have been secluded so much from intelligence, Mr. 
Waverley, from causes of which I am but indistinctly in- 
formed, that I presume you are even yet unacquainted with 
the important particulars of my present situation. You 
have, however, heard of my landing in the remote district of 
Moidart, with only seven attendants, and of the numerous 
chiefs and clans whose loyal enthusiasm at once placed a soli- 
tary adventurer at the head of a gallant army. You must 
also,. I think, have learned that the commander-in-chief of 
the Hanoverian Elector, Sir John Cope, marched into the 
Highlands at the head of a numerous and well-appointed 
military force with the intention of giving us battle, but 
that his courage failed him when we were within three hours' 
march of each other, so that he fairly gave us the slip and 
marched northward to Aberdeen, leaving the Low Country 
open and undefended. Not to lose so favourable an oppor- 
tunity, I marched on to this metropolis, driving before me 
two regiments of horse, Gardiner's and Hamilton's, who had 
threatened to cut to pieces every Highlander that should 
venture to pass Stirling ; and while discussions were carrying 
forward among the magistracy and citizens of Edinburgh 
whether they should defend themselves or surrender, my 
good friend Lochiel (laying his hand on the shoulder of that 
gallant and accomplished chieftain) saved them the trouble 
of further deliberation by entering the gates with five hun- 
dred Camerons. Thus far, therefore, we have done well ; 
but, in the meanwhile, this doughty general's nerves being 
braced by the keen air of Aberdeen, he has taken shipping 
8 


114 


WAVEBLEY. 


for Dunbar, and I have just received certain information 
that he landed there yesterday. His purpose must unques- 
tionably be to march towards us to recover possession of the 
capital. Will Mr. Waverley favour us with his opinion upon 
our best course of action in these arduous circumstances 

Waverley coloured high betwixt pleasure and modesty at 
the distinction implied in this question, and answered that 
he could not venture to offer an opinion as derived from 
military skill, but that the counsel would be far the most 
acceptable to him which should first afford him an oppor- 
tunity to evince his zeal in his Koyal Highnesses service. 

Spoken like a W^averley ! answered Charles Edward ; 
''and that you may hold a rank in some degree correspond- 
ing to your name, allow me, instead of the captain^s commis- 
sion which you have lost, to offer you the brevet rank of 
major in my service, with the advantage of acting as one of 
my aides-de-camp until you can be attached to a regiment. 

" Your Royal Highness will forgive me,” answered Waver- 
ley, "if I decline accepting any rank until the time and 
place where I may have interest enough to raise a sufficient 
body of men to make my command useful to your Royal 
Highnesses service. In the meanwhile, I hope for your per- 
mission to serve as a volunteer under my friend Fergus Mac- 
Ivor.” 

"At least,ee said the Prince, who was obviously pleased 
with this proposal, "allow me the pleasure of arming you 
after the Highland fashion.” W^ith these words, he un- 
buckled the broadsword which he wore, the belt of which 
was plaited with silver, and the steel basket-hilt richly and 
curiously inlaid. "The blade,” said the Prince, "is a gen- 
uine Andrea Ferrara * ; it has been a sort of heirloom in our 


1 The name of Andrea de Ferrara was inscribed on all Scottish broadswords which 
were accounted of especial excellence. Who the artificer was is uncertain, but he was 
probably an Italian or Spaniard brought to Scotland in the sixteenth century to teach the 
Scots the art of making sword blades. 


THE MYSTERY BEGINS TO BE CLEARED UP. 115 


family ; but I am convinced I put it into better bands than 
my own, and will add to it pistols of the same workmanship. 
Colonel Mac-Ivor, you must have much to say to your friend ; 
I will detain you no longer from your private conversation ; 
but remember we expect you both to attend us in the even- 
ing.^" 

Thus licensed the Chief and Waverley left the presence 
chamber. 


CHAPTER XXIX. 

THE MYSTERY BEGINS TO BE CLEARED UP. 

How do you like him ? was Fergus’s first question, as 
they descended the large stone staircase. 

A prince to live and die under,” was Waverley’s enthusi- 
astic answer. 

I knew you would think so. And yet he has his foibles, 
or rather he has difficult cards to play, and his Irish officers, 
who are much about him, are but sorry advisers : they cannot 
discriminate among the numerous pretensions that are set 
up. — But we must have you properly equipped for the even- 
ing in a new costume ; for, to say truth, your outward man 
is scarce fit for a court.” 

The necessary directions given, the Chieftain resumed the 
subject of Waverley’s adventures. It is plain,” he said, 
that you have been in the custody of Donald Bean Lean. 
I recognise his hand particularly in the mode of your rescue 
from that canting rascal Gilfillan, and I have little doubt that 
Donald himself played the part of the pedlar on that occasion ; 
but how he should not have plundered you, or put you to ran- 
som, or availed himself in some way or other of your activity 
for his own advantage, passes my judgment.” 

When and how did you hear the intelligence of my con- 
finement ?” asked Waverley. 


116 


WAVERLEY. 


The Prince himself told me/^said Fergus, ^^and inquired 
very minutely into your history. He then mentioned your 
being at that moment in the power of one of our northern 
parties, and requested my opinion about disposing of yon. I 
recommended that you should be brought here as a prisoner, 
because I did not want to prejudice you farther with the Eng- 
lish government, in case you pursued your purpose of going 
southward. I knew nothing, you must recollect, of the 
charge brought against you of aiding and abetting high 
treason, which, I presume, had some share in changing your 
original plan.^^ 

How surely, my dear Fergus, said Waverley, ^^you may 
find time to tell me something of Flora. 

Why,’^ replied Fergus, can only tell you that she is 
well, and residing for the present with a relation in this city. 
She and I had a quarrel about her not appearing to take 
leave of you. I am unwilling to renew it by soliciting her to 
receive you this morning ; and perhaps my doing so might 
not only be ineffectual, but prevent your meeting this even- 
ing.” 

While thus conversing, Waverley heard in the court, before 
the windows of the parlour, the well-known voice of the Baron 
of Bradwardine. A moment later he hove in sight. The 
uniform in which he was now attired, a blue coat, namely, 
with gold lace, a scarlet waistcoat and breeches, and immense 
jack-boots, seemed to have added fresh stiffness and rigidity 
to his tall, perpendicular figure. 

He received Waverley with his usual kindness, and ex- 
pressed immediate anxiety to hear an explanation of the cir- 
cumstances attending the loss of his commission in GardineFs 
dragoons. Fergus Mac-Ivor, who had now joined them, went 
hastily over the circumstances of Waverley^s story, and con- 
cluded with the fiattering reception he had met from the 
young Chevalier. The Baron listened in silence, and at the 
conclusion shook Waverley heartily by the hand and congrat- 


THE MYSTERY BEGINS TO BE CLEARED UP. 117 


ulated him upon entering the service of his lawful Prince. 
^'For/^ continued he, although it has been justly held in 
all nations a matter of scandal and dishonour to infringe the 
sacrameiitum militarey^ and that whether it was taken by each 
soldier singly, or by one soldier in name of the rest, yet no 
one ever doubted that the allegiance so sworn was discharged 
by the dimissio, or discharging of a soldier, whose case would 
be as hard as that of colliers, salters, and other adscriyti 
glelcBy or slaves of the soil, were it to be accounted otherwise.'’’ 

As soon as opportunity offered, Waverley made inquiry after 
Miss Bradwardine, and was informed she had come to Edin- 
burgh with Flora Mac-Ivor, under guard of a party of the 
Chieftain’s men. This step was, indeed, necessary, Tully- 
Veolan having become a very unpleasant, and even dangerous, 
place of residence for an unprotected young lady, on account 
of its vicinity to one or two large villages which had declared 
themselves on the side of government, and formed irregular 
bodies of partizans, who had frequent skirmishes with the 
mountaineers, and sometimes attacked the houses of the 
Jacobite gentry in the braes,* or frontier betwixt the moun- 
tain and the plain. 

I would propose to you,” continued the Baron, ^^to walk 
as far as my quarters in the Luckenbooths, and to admire in 
your passage the High Street, whilk * is, beyond a shadow of 
dubitation, finer than any street whether in London or Paris. 
Rose, poor thing, is sorely discomposed with the firing of the 
Castle, though 1 have proved to her that it is impossible a 
bullet can reach these buildings. But I stand here talking 
to you two youngsters when I should be in the King’s Park. 
I’ll join you later.” 

So saying, he took leave of his friends and went to look after 
the charge which had been assigned him. 

* military oath. ’ hills. 


• which. 


118 


WAVERLEY. 


CHAPTER XXX. 

THE BALL. 

Whek the hour for the ball arrived, Waverley, with the 
Baron and the Chieftain, proceeded to Holyrood House. 
The two last were in full tide of spirits, and the Baron rallied 
in his way our hero upon the handsome figure which his new 
dress displayed to advantage. 

It was not long before the lover'^s eye discovered the object 
of his attachment. Flora Mac-Ivor was in the act of return- 
ing to her seat, near the top * of the room, with Rose Brad- 
wardine by her side. Among much elegance and beauty, they 
had attracted a great degree of the public attention. The 
Prince took much notice of both, particularly of Flora, with 
whom he danced, a preference which she probably owed to 
her foreign education and command of the French and Italian 
languages. 

When the bustle attending the conclusion of the dance 
permitted, Edward almost intuitively followed Fergus to 
the place where Miss Mac-Ivor was seated. The sensation of 
hope with which he had nursed his affection in absence of 
the beloved object seemed to vanish in her presence. He 
accompanied Fergus with downcast eyes, tingling ears, and 
the feelings of the criminal who, while the melancholy cart 
moves slowly through the crowds that have assembled to be- 
hold his execution, receives no clear sensation either from the 
noise which fills his ears or the tumult on which he casts his 
wandering look. 

Flora seemed a little — a very little — affected and discom- 
posed at his approach. ‘‘^I bring you an adopted son of Ivor,^^ 
said Fergus. 

And I receive him as a second brother,'’’ replied Flora. 


^ i.e. at the further end, 


THE BALL. 


119 


There was a slight emphasis on the word, which would 
have escaped every ear but one that was feverish with appre- 
hension. It was, however, distinctly marked. Edward 
stopped, bowed, and looked at Fergus, who bit his lip, a 
movement of anger which proved that he also had put a sinis- 
ter interpretation on the reception which his sister had given 
his friend. This, then, is an end of my day-dream 
Such was AVaverley^s first thought, aod it was so exquisitely 
painful as to banish from his cheek every drop of blood. 

Good God ! said Kose Bradwardine, he is not yet re- 
covered ! 

These words, which she uttered with great emotion, were 
overheard by the Chevalier himself, who stepped hastily for- 
ward, and, taking Waverley by the hand, inquired kindly 
after his health, and added that he wished to speak with him. 
By a strong and sudden effort Waverley recovered himself so 
far as to follow the Chevalier in silence to a recess in the 
apartment. 

Here the Prince detained him some time, asking various 
questions about the great Tory and Catholic families of Eng- 
land, their connexions, their influence, and the state of their 
affections towards the house of Stuart. To these queries 
Edward could not at any time have given more than general 
answers, and it may be supposed that, in the present state of 
his feelings, his responses were indistinct even to confusion. 
The Chevalier smiled once or twice at the incongruity of his 
replies, but continued the same style of conversation, although 
he found himself obliged to occupy the principal share of it 
until he perceived that Waverley had recovered his presence 
of mind. ‘‘1 cannot resist the temptation, he said, of 
boasting of my own discretion as a lady^s confidant. You 
see, Mr. Waverley,. that I know all, and I assure you I am 
deeply interested in the affair. But, my good young friend, 
you must put a more severe restraint upon your feelings. 
There are many here whose eyes can see as clearly as mine, 


120 


WAVERLEY. 


but the prudence of whose tongues may not be equally 
trusted/^ 

So saying, he turned easily away and joined a circle of 
officers at a few paces^ distance, leaving Waverley to meditate 
upon his parting expression, which, though not intelligible 
to him in its whole purport, was sufficiently so in the caution 
which the last word recommended. Making, therefore, an 
effort to show himself worthy of the interest which his new 
master had expressed, by instant obedience to his recommen- 
dation, he walked up to the spot where Flora and Miss Brad- 
wardine were still seated, and succeeded, even beyond his 
own expectation, in entering into conversation upon general 
topics. 

Flora Mac-Ivor appeared to be the only female present who 
regarded him with a degree of coldness and reserve ; yet even 
she could not suppress a sort of wonder at talents which she 
had never seen displayed with equal brilliancy. 

With different feelings Eose Bradwardine bent her whole 
soul to listen. She felt a secret triumph at the public tribute 
paid to one whose merit she had learned to prize too early and 
too fondly. Without a thought of jealousy, without a feeling 
of fear, pain, or doubt, and undisturbed by a single selfish 
consideration, she resigned herself to the pleasure of observ- 
ing .the general murmur of applause. When Waverley spoke, 
her ear was exclusively filled with his voice; when others 
answered, her eye took its turn of observation, and seemed to 
watch his reply. 

Baron,'’^ said the Chevalier, I would not trust my mis- 
tress in the company of your young friend. He is really, 
though perhaps somewhat romantic, one of the most fascinat- 
ing young men whom I have ever seen.^^ 

The Prince then led the way to another suite of apartments, 
and assumed the seat and canopy at the head of a long range 
of tables with an air of dignity, mingled with courtesy, which 
well became his high birth and lofty pretensions. An hour 


THE MARCH. 


121 


had hardly flown away when the musicians played the signal 
for parting so well known in Scotland. 

^‘Good-night, then,^^ said the Chevalier, rising; “good- 
night and joy be with you ! Good-night, fair ladies, who have 
so highly honoured a proscribed and banished Prince ! good- 
night, my brave friends ; may the happiness we have this 
evening experienced be an omen of our return to these our 
paternal halls, speedily and in triumph, and of many and 
many future meetings of mirth and pleasure in the palace of 
Holyrood ! " 


CHAPTER XXXI. 

THE MARCH. 

The conflicting passions and exhausted feelings of Waver- 
ley had resigned him to late but sound repose. He was 
aroused by Callum^s brogue in his apartment. 

“ Winna yer honour bang' up? Vich Ian Vohr and ta 
Prince are awa to the lang green glen ahint the clachan,’ tat 
they ca^ the King^s Park, and mony ane^s on his ain shanks 
the day that will be carried on ither folk^s ere night."'^ 

Waverley sprung up, and, with Callum^’s assistance and in- 
structions, adjusted his tartans in proper costume. Callum 
told him also, “tat his leather dorlach ® wi^ the lock on her 
was come frae Doune, and she was awa again in the wain wP 
Vich Ian Vohr’s walise.^’ 

By this periphrasis Waverley readily apprehended his port- 
manteau was intended. He thought upon the mysterious 
packet of the maid of the cavern, which seemed always to 
escape him when within his very grasp. But this was no 
time for indulgence of curiosity ; and he made his adieus and 
departed with Callum. 

Upon extricating themselves from the mean and dirty sub- 

1 spring. * behind the little village. ® baggage-piece. 


122 


WAVERLEY. 


urbs of the metropolis, and emerging into the open air, 
Waverley felt a renewal both of health and spirits. 

When he had surmounted a small craggy eminence called 
St. Leonardos Hill, the King's Park, or the hollow between 
the mountain of Arthur’s Seat and the rising grounds on 
which the southern part of Edinburgh is now built, lay be- 
neath him, and displayed a singular and animating prospect. 
It was occupied by the army of the Highlanders, now in the 
act of preparing for their march. The rocks, which formed 
the background of the scene, and the very sky itself, rang 
with the clang of the bagpipers, summoning forth, each with 
his appropriate pibroch, his chieftain and clan. 

The sort of complicated medley created by the hasty ar- 
rangements of the various clans under their respective ban- 
ners, for the purpose of getting into the order of march, was 
in itself a gay and lively spectacle. They had no tents to 
strike, having generally and by choice, slept upon the open 
field, although the autumn was now waning and the nights 
began to be frosty. For a little space, while they were get- 
ting into order, there was exhibited a changing, fiuctuating, 
and confused appearance of waving tartans and fioating 
plumes, and of banners displaying the proud gathering word 
of Clanronald ; of the MacEarlanes ; of the Marquis of Tulli- 
bardine; of Lord Lewis Gordon ; and the appropriate signal 
words and emblems of many other chieftains and clans. 

At length the mixed and wavering multitude arranged 
themselves into a narrow and dusky column of great lenth, 
stretching through the whole extent of the valley. In the 
front of the column the standard of the Chevalier was dis- 
played, bearing a red cross upon a white ground, with the 
motto Tandem Triumphans.'^ 

While Waverley gazed upon this remarkable spectacle, ren- 
dered yet more impressive by the occasional discharge of can- 
non-shot from the Castle at the Highland guards as they were 

* i.e, at length triumphant. 


AN INCIDENT GIVES RISE TO UNAVAILING REFLECTIONS. 123 


withdrawn from its vicinity to join their main body, Callum, 
with his usual freedom of interference, reminded him that 
Vich Ian Yohr^s folk were nearly at the head of the column 
of march, which was still distant, and that “they would gang 
very fast after the canon fired.'’'’ Thus admonished, Waverley 
walked briskly forward, yet often casting a glance upon the 
darksome clouds of warriors who were collected before and 
beneath him. A nearer view, indeed, rather diminished the 
effect impressed on the mind by the more distant appearance 
of the army. The leading men of each clan were well armed 
with broadsword, target,^ and fusee,** to which all added the 
dirk, and most the steel pistol. Finer and hardier men 
could not have been selected out of any army in Christen- 
dom. 

But, in a lower rank to these, there were found individuals 
of an inferior description, the common peasantry of the High- 
land country, who bore the livery of extreme penury, being 
indifferently accoutred, and worse armed, half naked, stinted 
in growth, and miserable in aspect. 

It cannot therefore be wondered if Waverley, who had 
hitherto judged of the Highlanders generally from the sam- 
ples which Fergus had from time to time exhibited, should 
have felt damped and astonished at the daring attempt of a 
body not then exceeding four thousand men, and of whom 
not above half the number, at the utmost, were armed, to 
change the fate and alter the dynasty of the British king- 
doms. 


CHAPTER XXXII. 

AN INCIDENT GIVES RISE TO UNAVAILING REFLECTIONS. 

When Waverley reached that part of the column which was 
filled by the clan of Mac-Ivor, they halted, formed, and re- 

* a small, circular shield, ^ a flintlock gun. 


124 


WAVERLEY. 


ceived him with a triumphant flourish upon the bagpipes and 
a loud shout of the men, most of whom knew him personally, 
and were delighted to see him in the dress of their country 
and of their sept/ 

The route pursued by the Highland army, after leaving the 
village of Duddingston, was for some time the common post- 
road betwixt Edinburgh and Haddington, until they crossed 
the Esk at Musselburgh, when, instead of keeping the low 
grounds towards the sea, they turned more inland, and occu- 
pied the brow of the eminence called Carberry Hill. This 
direction was chosen because the Chevalier had received 
notice that the army of the government, arriving by sea from 
Aberdeen, had landed at Dunbar, and quartered the night 
before to the west of Haddington, with the intention of falling 
down towards the sea-side, and approaching Edinburgh by the 
lower coast-road. By keeping the height, which overhung 
that road in many places, it was hoped the Highlanders might 
find an opportunity of attacking them to advantage. While 
they remained in this position a messenger arrived in haste 
to desire Mac-Ivor to come to the Prince, adding that their 
advanced post had had a skirmish with some of the enemy^s 
cavalry, and that the Baron of Bradwardine had sent in a few 
prisoners. 

Waverley walked forward out of the line to satisfy his curi- 
osity, and soon observed five or six of the troopers who, cov- 
ered with dust, had galloped in to announce that the enemy 
were in full march westward along the coast. Passing still a 
little farther on, he was struck with a groan which issued 
from a hovel. He approached the spot, and heard a voice, in 
the provincial English of his native county, which endeav- 
oured, though frequently interrupted by pain, to repeat the 
Lord^s Prayer. He entered the hovel, and in its obscurity Ed- 
ward could only at first discern a sort of red bundle ; for those 
who had stripped the wounded man of his arms and part of 


1 clan. 


AN INCIDENT GIVES EISE TO UNAVAILING EEFLECTIONS. 125 


his clothes had left him the dragoon-cloak in which he was 
enveloped. 

‘^For the love of God/^ said the wounded man^, as he heard 
Waverley^s step, give me a single drop of water ! 

You shall have it/^ answered Waverley, at the same time 
raising him in his arms, bearing him to the door of the hut, 
and giving him some drink from his flask. 

I should know that voice, said the man ; but looking on 
Waverley^s dress with a bewildered look — no, this is not the 
young squire ! 

This was the common phrase by which Edward was distin- 
guished on the estate of Waverley-Honour, and the sound now 
thrilled to his heart with the thousand recollections which 
the well-known accents of his native country had already con- 
tributed to awaken. Houghton ! said he, gazing on the 
ghastly features which death was fast disflguring, ‘^can this 
be you ? 

I never thought to hear an English voice again,^^ said the 
wounded man ; they left me to live or die here as I could, 
when they found I would say nothing about the strength of 
the regiment. But oh, squire ! how could you stay from us so 
long, and let us be tempted by that flend of the pit, Euffin ? 
We should have followed you through flood and fire, to be 
sure. 

Euffin ! I assure you, Houghton, you have been vilely 
imposed upon."’"’ 

I often thought so,” said Houghton, ‘Hhough they showed 
us your very seal ; and so Tims was shot and I was reduced to 
the ranks.” 

^^Do not exhaust your strength in speaking,” said Edward : 

will get you a surgeon presently.” 

He saw Mac-Ivor approaching, who was now returning from 
headquarters, where he had attended a council of war, and 
hastened to meet him. Brave news ! ” shouted the Chief ; 

we shall be at it in less than two hours. The Prince has 


126 


WAVERLEY. 


put himself at the head of the advance. Come, Waverley, we 
move instantly.^'’ 

A moment — a moment ; this poor prisoner is dying ; 
where shall I find a surgeon ? 

^‘Why, where should you? We have none, you know, 
but two or three French fellows, who, I believe, are little 
better than gar^ons apotliecaires” ' 

‘^But the man will bleed to death. 

Poor fellow ! said Fergus in a momentary fit of compas- 
sion; then instantly added, "'But it will be a thousand men^s 
fate before night ; so come along. 

"I cannot; I tell you he is a son of a tenant of my 
uncle^s.^^ 

" Oh, if he^s a follower of yours he must be looked to ; Pll 
send Callum to you ; but,^^ continued the impatient Chieftain, 
what made an old soldier like Bradwardine send dying men 
here to cumber us ? ^^ 

Callum came with his usual alertness. In about a quar- 
ter of an hour poor Humphrey breathed his last, praying 
his young master, when he returned to Waverley-Honour, to 
be kind to old Job Houghton and his dame, and conjuring 
him not to fight with these wild petticoat-men against old 
England. 

When his last breath was drawn, Waverley, who had beheld 
with sincere sorrow, and no slight tinge of remorse, the final 
agonies of mortality, now witnessed for the first time, com- 
manded Callum to remove the body into the hut. It was by 
a considerable exertion that they regained their place in the 
marching column, which was now moving rapidly forward to 
occupy the high grounds above the village of Tranent, between 
which and the sea lay the purposed march of the opposite 
army. 

This melancholy interview with his late sergeant forced 
many unavailing and painful reflections upon Waverley^s 

1 druggists’ clerks. 


THE EVE OF BATTLE. 


127 


mind. It was clear from the confession of the man that Colo- 
nel Gardiner’s proceedings had been strictly warranted, and 
even rendered indispensable, by the steps taken in Edward’s 
name to induce the soldiers of his troop to mutiny. The cir- 
cumstances of the seal he now, for the first time, recollected, 
and that he had lost it in the cavern of the robber. Bean Lean. 
That the artful villain had secured it, and used it as the 
means of carrying on an intrigue in the regiment for his own 
purposes, was sufficiently evident ; and Edward had now little 
doubt that in the packet placed in his portmanteau by his 
daughter he should find farther light upon his proceedings. 
In the mean while the repeated expostulation of Houghton, 
Ah, squire, why did you leave us ? ” rung like a knell in 
his ears. 


CHAPTER XXXIII. 

THE EVE OF BATTLE. 

Although the Highlanders marched on very fast, the sun 
was declining when they arrived upon the brow of those high 
grounds which command an open and extensive plain stretch- 
ing northward to the sea, on which are situated, but at a con- 
siderable distance from each other, the small villages of Seaton 
and Cockenzie, and the larger one of Preston. One of the 
low coast-roads to Edinburgh passed through this plain. By 
this way the English general had chosen to approach the 
metropolis, both as most commodious for his cavalry and being 
probably of opinion that by doing so he would meet in front 
with the Highlanders advancing from Edinburgh in the 
opposite direction. In this he was mistaken ; for the sound 
judgment of the Chevalier, or of those to whose advice he 
listened, left the direct passage free, but occupied the strong 
ground by which it was overlooked and commanded. 


128 


WAVERLEY. 


When the Highlanders reached the heights above the plain 
described, they were immediately formed in array of battle 
along the brow of the hill. Almost at the same instant the 
van of the English appeared issuing from among the trees 
and inclosures of Seaton, with the purpose of occupying the 
level plain between the high ground and the sea ; the space 
which divided the armies being only about half a mile in 
breadth. Waverley could plainly see the squadrons of dra- 
goons issue, one after another, from the defiles, with their 
videttes in front, and form upon the plain, with their front 
opposite to that of the Princess army. They were followed 
by a train of field-pieces, which, when they reached the flank 
of the dragoons, were also brought into line and pointed 
against the heights. The march was continued by three or 
four regiments of infantry marching in open column, their 
fixed bayonets showing like successive hedges of steel, and 
their arms glancing like lightning, as, at a signal given, they 
also at once wheeled up, and were placed in direct opposition 
to the Highlanders. A second train of artillery, with another 
regiment of horse, closed the long march, and formed on the 
left flank of the infantry, the whole line facing southward. 

While the English army went through these evolutions, the 
Highlanders showed equal promptitude and zeal for battle. 
As fast as the clans came upon the ridge which fronted their 
enemy, they were formed into line, so that both armies got 
into complete order of battle at the same moment. When 
this was accomplished, the Highlanders set up a tremendous 
yell, which was re-echoed by the heights behind them. The 
regulars, who were in high spirits, returned a loud shout of 
defiance, and fired one or two of their cannon upon an ad- 
vanced post of the Highlanders. The latter displayed great 
earnestness to proceed instantly to the attack. 

But the ground through which the mountaineers must have 
descended, although not of great extent, was impracticable in 
its character, being not only marshy, but intersected with walls 


THE EVE OF BATTLE. 


129 


of dry stone, and traversed in its whole length by a very broad 
and deep ditch, circumstances which must have given the 
musketry of the regulars dreadful advantages before the moun- 
taineers could have used their swords, on which they were 
taught to rely. The authority of the commanders was there- 
fore interposed to curb the impetuosity of the Highlanders, 
and only a few marksmen were sent down the descent to skir- 
mish with the enemy^s advanced posts and to reconnoitre the 
ground. 

The space between the armies was at times occupied by the 
partial and irregular contest of individual sharpshooters, and 
a hat or bonnet was occasionally seen to fall, as a wounded 
man was borne otf by his comrades. These, however, were 
but trifling skirmishes, for it suited the views of neither party 
to advance in that direction. From the neighbouring ham- 
lets the peasantry cautiously showed themselves, as if watch- 
ing the issue of the expected engagement ; and at no great 
distance in the bay were two square-rigged vessels, bearing 
the English flag, whose tops and yards were crowded with less 
timid spectators. 

When this awful pause had lasted for a short time, Fergus, 
with another chieftain, received orders to detach their clans 
towards the village of Preston, in order to threaten the right 
flank of Cope’s army and compel him to a change of position. 
To enable him to execute these orders, the Chief of Glenna- 
quoich occupied the churchyard of Tranent, a commanding 
situation, and a convenient place, as Evan Dhu remarked, 
^^for any gentleman who might have the misfortune to be 
killed, and chanced to be curious about Christian burial.” 

. To check or dislodge this party, the English general detached 
two guns, escorted by a strong party of cavalry. They ap- 
proached so near that Waverley could plainly recognise the 
standard of the troop he had formerly commanded, and hear 
the trumpets and kettle-drums sound the signal of advance 
which he had so often obeyed. He could hear, too, the well- 
9 


130 


WAVERLEY. 


known word given in the English dialect by the equally well- 
distinguished voice of the commanding officer, for whom he 
had once felt so much respect. It was at that instant that, 
looking around him, he saw the wild dress of his Highland 
associates, heard their whispers in an uncouth and unknown 
language, looked upon his own dress, so unlike that which he 
had worn from his infancy, and wished to awake from what 
seemed at the moment a dream, strange, horrible, and un- 
natural. ^^Good God!^^ he muttered, ^^am I then a traitor 
to my country, a renegade to my standard, and a foe, as that 
poor dying wretch expressed himself, to my native England ! 

Ere he could digest or smother the recollection, the tall 
military form of his late commander came full in view, for 
the purpose of reconnoitring. I can hit him now,^^ said 
Galium, cautiously raising his fusee over the wall under which 
he lay couched, at scarce sixty yards^ distance. 

Edward felt as if he was about to see a parricide committed 
in his presence ; for the venerable grey hair and striking coun- 
tenance of the veteran recalled the almost paternal respect 
with which his officers universally regarded him. But ere he 
could say ^^Hold \ an aged Highlander who lay beside Cal- 
• lum Beg stopped his arm. “ Spare your shot,^^ said the seer, 

his hour is not yet come. But let him beware of to-morrow ; 
I see his winding-sheet high upon his breast. 

Galium, flint to other considerations, was penetrable to 
superstition. He turned pale, and recovered his piece. 
Golonel Gardiner, unconscious of the danger he had escaped, 
turned his horse round and rode slowly back to the front of 
his regiment. 

By this time the regular army had assumed a new line, 
with one flank inclined towards the sea and the other resting 
upon the village of Preston ; and, as similar difficulties oc- 
curred in attacking their new position, Fergus and the rest 
of the detachment were recalled to their former post. This 
alteration created the necessity of a corresponding change in 


THE CONFLICT. 


131 


General Cope’s army, which was again brought into a line 
parallel with that of the Highlanders. In these manoeuvres 
on both sides the daylight was nearly consumed, and both 
armies prepared to rest upon their arms for the night in the 
lines which they respectively occupied. 

There will he nothing done to-night,” said Fergus to his 
friend Waverley ; ^Het us wrap ourselves in our plaids and 
get a little sleep.” 


CHAPTER XXXIV. 

THE CONFLICT. 

When Fergus Mac-Ivor and his friend had slept for a few 
hours, they were awakened and summoned to attend the 
Prince. The distant village-clock was heard to toll three as 
they hastened to the place where he lay. lie was already 
surrounded by his principal officers and the chiefs of clans. 
A bundle of pease-straw, which had been lately his couch, 
now served for his seat. Just as Fergus reached the circle, 
the consultation had broken up. ‘^Courage, my brave 
friends !” said the Chevalier, ‘‘ and each one put himself in- 
stantly at the head of his command ; a faithful friend has 
offered to guide us by a practicable, though narrow and cir- 
cuitous route, which traverses the broken ground and morass, 
and enables us to gain the firm and open plain upon which 
the enemy are lying. This difficulty surmounted. Heaven 
and your good swords must do the rest.” 

The proposal spread unanimous joy,_and each leader has- 
tened to get his men into order with as little noise as possible. 
The army, moving by its right from ofi the ground on which 
they had rested, soon entered the path through the morass, 
conducting their march with astonishing silence and great 
rapidity. The head of the marching column, continuing its 


132 


WAVERLEY. 


descent^ plunged as it were into the heavy ocean of fog which 
rolled its white waves over the whole plain and over the sea 
by which it was bounded. Some difficulties were now to be 
encountered, inseparable from darkness — a narrow, broken, 
and marshy path, and the necessity of preserving union in 
the march. 

As the clan of Ivor approached the firm ground, following 
the track of those who preceded them, the challenge of a 
patrol was heard through the mist : Who goes there 

^^Hush !” cried Fergus ! ^^Let none answer, as he values 
his life. Press forward ; and they continued their march 
with silence and rapidity. 

The patrol fired his carabine, and the report was instantly' 
followed by the clang of his horse^s feet as he galloped off. 

That loon will give the alarm,^’ said the Baron of Brad- 
wardine. 

The clan of Fergus had now gained the firm plain, which 
had lately borne a large crop of corn. But the harvest was 
gathered in, and the expanse was unbroken by tree, bush, or 
interruption of any kind. The rest of the army were follow- 
ing fast, when they heard the drums of the enemy beat the 
general.^ Surprise, however, had made no part of their plan, 
so they were not disconcerted by this intimation that the foe 
was upon his guard and prepared to receive them. 

The Highland army, which now occupied the eastern end 
of the wide plain, or stubble field, was drawn up in two lines, 
extending from the morass towards the sea. The first was 
destined to charge the enemy, the second to act as a reserve. 
The few horse, whom the Prince headed in person, remained 
between the two lines. 

Both lines were now moving forward, the first prepared 
for instant combat. The clans of which it was composed 
formed each a sort of separate phalanx, narrow in front, and 
in depth ten, twelve, or fifteen files, according to the strength 

* general alarm. 


THE CONFLICT. 


133 


of the following. The best armed were placed in front of 
each of these irregular subdivisions. The others in the rear 
shouldered forward the front, and by their pressure added 
both physical impulse and additional ardour and confidence, 
to those who were first to encounter the danger. 

‘^Down with your plaid, Waverley,^^ cried Fergus, throwing 
off his own ; wefil win silks for our tartans before the sun 
is above the sea.^^ 

The clansmen on every side stript their plaids, prepared 
their arms, and there was an awful pause of about three min- 
utes, during which the men, pulling off their bonnets, raised 
their faces to heaven and uttered a short prayer ; then pulled 
their bonnets over their brows and began to move forward, at 
first slowly. Waverley felt his heart at that moment throb 
as if it would have burst from his bosom. It was not fear, it 
was not ardour — it was a compound of both, a new and 
deeply energetic impulse, that with its first emotion chilled 
and astounded, then fevered and maddened his mind. The 
sounds around him combined to exalt his enthusiasm ; the 
pipes played, and the clans rushed forward, each in its own 
dark column. As they advanced they mended their pace, and 
the muttering sounds of the men to each other began to swell 
into a wild cry. 

At this moment the sun, which was now risen above the 
horizon, dispelled the mist. The vapours rose like a curtain, 
and showed the two armies in the act of closing. The line 
of the regulars was formed directly fronting the attack of 
the Highlanders ; it glittered with the appointments of a 
complete army, and was fianked by cavalry and artillery. 
But the sight impressed no terror on the assailants. 

Forward, sons of Ivor,” cried their chief, ‘^or the Cam- 
erons will draw the first blood ! ” They rushed on with a 
tremendous yell. 

The rest is well known. The horse, who were commanded 
to charge the advancing Highlanders in the flank, received 


134 


WAVERLEY. 


an irregular fire from their fusees as they ran on, and, seized 
with a disgraceful panic, wavered, halted, disbanded, and 
galloped from the field. The artillerymen, deserted by the 
cavalry, fled after discharging their pieces, and the High- 
landers, who dropped their guns when fired and drew their 
broadswords, rushed with headlong fury against the infantry. 

It was at this moment of confusion and terror that Waver- 
ley remarked an English officer, apparently of high rank, 
standing, alone and unsupported, by a field-piece, which, 
after the flight of the men by whom it was wrouglit, he had 
himself levelled and discharged against the clan of Mac-Ivor, 
the nearest group of Highlanders within his aim. Struck 
with his tall, martial figure, and eager to save him from in- 
evitable destruction, Waverley outstripped for an instant 
even the speediest of the warriors, and, reaching the spot 
first, called to him to surrender. The officer replied by a 
tlinust with his sword, which Waverley received in his target, 
and in turning it aside the Englishman's weapon broke. At 
the same time the battle-axe of Hugald Mahony was in the 
act of descending upon the officer’s head. Waverley inter- 
cepted and prevented the blow, and the officer, perceiving 
further resistance unavailing, resigned the fragment of his 
sword, and was committed by Waverley to Hugald, with 
strict charge to use him well, and not to pillage his person. 

On Edward’s right the battle for a few minutes raged 
fierce and thick. The English infantry, trained in the wars 
in Flanders, stood their ground with great courage. But 
their extended files were pierced and broken in many places 
by the close masses of the clans ; and in the personal strug- 
gle which ensued the nature of the Highlanders’ weapons, 
and their extraordinary fierceness and activity, gave them a 
decided superiority over those who had been accustomed to 
trust much to their array and discipline, and felt that the 
one was broken and the other useless. Waverley, as he cast 
his eyes towards this scene of smoke and slaughter^ observed 


THE ENGLISH PRISONEK. 


135 


Colonel Gardiner, deserted by his own soldiers in spite of all 
his attempts to rally them, yet spurring his horse through 
the field to take the command of a small body of infantry, 
who continued a desperate and unavailing resistance. Waver- 
ley could perceive that he had already received many wounds, 
his clothes and saddle being marked with blood. To save 
this good and brave man became the instant object of his 
most anxious exertions. But he could only witness his fall. 
Ere Edward could make his way among the Highlanders, 
who, furious and eager for spoil, now thronged upon each 
other, he saw his former commander brought from his horse 
by the blow of a scythe, and beheld him receive, while on 
the ground, more wounds than would have let out twenty 
lives. When Waverley came up, however, perception had 
not entirely fled. The dying warrior seemed to recognise 
Edward, for he fixed his eyes upon him with an upbraiding, 
yet sorrowful, look, and appeared to struggle for utterance. 
But he felt that death was dealing closely with him, and re- 
signing his purpose, and folding his hands as if in devotion, 
he gave up his soul to his Creator. 

Loud shouts of triumph now echoed over the whole field. 
The battle was fought and won, and the whole baggage, ar- 
tillery, and military stores of the regular army remained in 
possession of the victors. Never was a victory more com- 
plete. Scarce any escaped from the battle, excepting the 
cavalry, who had .left it at the very onset, and even these 
were scattered all over the country. 


CHAPTER XXXV. 

THE ENGLISH PRISONER. 

The first occupation of Waverley, when leisure afforded, 
was to go in quest of the officer whose life he had saved. He 


136 


WAVERLEY. 


was guarded, along with his companions in misfortune, who 
were very numerous, in a gentleman^s house near the field of 
battle. 

On entering the room where they stood crowded together, 
Waverley easily recognised the object of his visit by the 
peculiar dignity of his appearance. 

Waverley, approaching the English officer, expressed his 
anxiety to do anything which might contribute to his con- 
venience. 

I am not so inexperienced a soldier, sir,^^ answered the 
Englishman, ^^as to complain of the fortune of war. I am 
only grieved to see such scenes acted in our own island. 

'^Another such day as this,^^ said Waverley, ^^and I trust 
the cause of your regrets will be removed, and all will again 
return to peace and order. 

The officer smiled and shook his head. ^‘1 must not forget 
my situation so far as to attempt a formal confutation of that 
opinion ; but, notwithstanding your success and valour, you 
have undertaken a task to which your strength appears 
wholly inadequate.” 

At this moment Fergus pushed into the press. 

Come, Edward, come along ; the Prince has gone to Pinkie 
House for the night ; and we must follow. Come along, 
Waverley.” 

AVaverley ! ” said the English officer, with great emotion ; 
^‘^the nephew of Sir Everard AYaverley, of shire ?” 

“ The same, sir,” replied our hero, somewhat surprised at 
the tone in which he was addressed. 

Did your uncle never mention a friend called Talbot ? ” 

I have heard him talk with great regard of such a person,” 
replied Edward; ^^a colonel, I believe, in the army, and the 
husband of Lady Emily Blandeville ; but I thought Colonel 
Talbot had been abroad.” 

am just returned,” answered the officer ; ^^and being in 
Scotland, thought it my duty to act where my services prom- 


THE ENGLISH PRISONER. 


137 


ised to be useful. Yes, Mr. Waverley, I am that Colonel 
Talbot, the husband of the lady you have named ; and I am 
proud to acknowledge that I owe alike my professional rank 
and my domestic happiness to your generous and noble- 
minded relative. Good God ! that I should find his nephew 
in such a dress, and engaged in such a cause ! 

^‘Sir,^^ said Fergus, haughtily, ^^the dress and cause are 
those of men of birth and honour.’’^ 

My situation forbids me to dispute your assertion,^^ said 
Colonel Talbot ; otherwise it were no difficult matter to show 
that neither courage nor pride of lineage can gild a bad cause. 
But, with Mr. Waverley’s permission, and yours, sir, if yours 
also must be asked, I would willingly speak a few words with 
him on affairs connected with his own family.'’^ 

^^Mr. Waverley, sir, regulates his own motions. You will 
follow me, I suppose, to Pinkie,” said Fergus turning to Ed- 
ward, ^^when you have finished.” So saying, the Chief of 
Glennaquoich adjusted his plaid with rather more than his 
usual air of haughty assumption and left the apartment. 

The interest of Waverley readily procured for Colonel Tal- 
bot the freedom of adjourning to a large garden belonging to 
his place of confinement. They walked a few paces in si- 
lence, Colonel Talbot apparently studying how to open what 
he had to say ; at length he addressed Edward. 

^^Mr. Waverley, you have this day saved my life ; and yet 
I would to God that I had lost it, ere I had found you wear- 
ing the uniform and cockade of these men.” 

forgive your reproach. Colonel Talbot ; it is well meant, 
and your education and prejudices render it natural. But 
there is nothing extraordinary in finding a man whose honour 
has been publicly and unjustly assailed in the situation which 
promised most fair to afford him satisfaction on his calum- 
niators.” 

should rather say, in the situation most likely to confirm 
the reports which they have circulated,” said Colonel Talbot. 


138 


WAVERLEY. 


^^Are you aware, Mr. Waverley, of the infinite distress, and 
even danger, which your present conduct has occasioned to 
your nearest relatives 

Danger !” 

^^Yes, sir, danger. When I left England your uncle and 
father had been obliged to find bail to answer a charge of 
treason, to which they were only admitted by the exertion of 
the most powerful interest. I came down to Scotland with 
the sole purpose of rescuing you from the gulf into which you 
have precipitated yourself ; nor can I estimate the conse- 
quences to your family of your having openly joined the 
rebellion, since the very suspicion of your intention was so 
perilous to them.^’ 

I am really ignorant/’ said Waverley, in a tone of re- 
serve, ^^why Colonel Talbot should have taken so much 
trouble on my account.” 

'^Mr. Waverley,” answered Talbot, am dull at appre- 
hending irony ; and therefore I shall answer your words 
according to their plain meaning. I am indebted to your 
uncle for benefits greater than those which a son owes to a 
father.” 

On my return to England,” continued Colonel Talbot, 
after long absence, I found your uncle. Sir Everard Waver- 
ley, in the custody of a king’s messenger, in consequence of 
the suspicion brought upon him by your conduct. I found 
him in confinement, rendered harsher to him by his habits 
of life, his natural dignity of feeling, and — forgive me, Mr. 
Waverley — by the cause through which this calamity had 
come upon him. I cannot disguise from you my feelings 
upon this occasion ; they were most painfully unfavourable 
to you. Having by my family interest, which you probably 
know is not inconsiderable, succeeded in obtaining Sir Eve- 
rard’s release, I set out for Scotland. I saw Colonel Gardiner, 
a man whose fate alone is sufficient to render this insurrec- 
tion for ever execrable. In the course of conversation with 


THE ENGLISH PRISONER. 


139 


him I found that, from late circumstances, from a re-exam- 
ination of the persons engaged in the mutiny, and from his 
original good opinion of your character, he was much soft- 
ened towards you ; and I doubted not that, if I could be so 
fortunate as to discover you, all might yet be well. But this 
unnatural rebellion has ruined all. And now I fiud the heir 
of my dearest friend sharing a triumph for which he ought 
the first to have blushed. Why should I lament Gardiner ? 
his lot was happy compared to mine 

Edward stood mortified, abashed, and distressed in pres- 
ence of the prisoner who owed to him his life not many hours 
before. He was not sorry when Fergus interrupted their 
conference a second time. 

His Royal Highness commands Mr. Waverley^s attend- 
ance.^^ Colonel Talbot threw upon Edward a reproachful 
glance, which did not escape the quick eye of the Highland 
Chief. His immediate attendance, he repeated, with con- 
siderable emphasis. Waverley turned again towards the 
Colonel. 

^MYe shall meet again,^^ he said; ^^in the mean while, 
every possible accommodation ” 

I desire none,” said the Colonel ; let me fare like the 
meanest of those brave men who, on this day of calamity, 
have preferred wounds and captivity to flight ; I would al- 
most exchange places with one of those who have. fallen to 
know that my words have made a suitable impression on 
your mind.” 

Let Colonel Talbot be carefully secured,” said Fergus to 
the Highland officer who commanded the guard over the 
prisoners; ^'itisthe Prince’s particular command; he is a 
prisoner of the utmost importance.” 

^^But let him want no accommodation suitable to his 
rank)” said Waverley. 

Consistent always with secure custody,” reiterated Fer- 
gus. The officer signified his acquiescence in both com- 


140 


WAVEKLEY. 


mands, and Edward followed Fergus to the garden-gate, 
where Callum Beg, with three saddle-horses, awaited them. 

The Chevalier received Waverley with his usual favour, 
and paid him many compliments on his distinguished bravery. 
He then took him apart, made many inquiries concerning 
Colonel Talbot, and when he had received all the information 
which Edward was able to give, he proceeded : I cannot but 
think, Mr. Waverley, that since this gentleman is so particu- 
larly connected with our worthy and excellent friend. Sir 
Everard Waverley, the ColoneFs own private sentiments can- 
not be unfavourable to us, whatever mask he may have 
assumed to accommodate himself to the times.'’’ 

^Hf I am to judge from the language he this day held to 
me, I am under the necessity of differing widely from your 
Eoyal Highness.” 

^^AVell, it is worth making a trial at least. I therefore 
entrust you with the charge of Colonel Talbot, with power 
to act concerning him as you think most advisable ; and I 
hope you will find means of ascertaining what are his real 
dispositions towards our Eoyal Father’s restoration. You 
will therefore receive him into your quarters, and in case he 
declines giving his parole, you must apply for a proper guard. 
I beg you will go about this directly. We return to Edin- 
burgh to-morrow.” 

When- Waverley returned to Preston and rejoined Colonel 
Talbot, he found him recovered from the strong and obvious 
emotions with which a concurrence of unpleasing events had 
affected him. He had regained his natural manner, which 
was that of an English gentleman and soldier, manly, open 
and generous, but not unsusceptible of prejudice against 
those of a different country, or who opposed him in political 
tenets. When Waverley acquainted Colonel Talbot with the 
Chevalier’s purpose to commit him to his charge, I did not 
think to have owed so much obligation to that young gentle- 
man,” he said. I can at least cheerfully join in the prayer 


INTKIGUES OF POLITICS. 


141 


of the honest Presbyterian clergyman, that, as he has come 
among us seeking an earthly crown, his labors may be speed- 
ily rewarded with a heavenly one. I shall willingly give my 
parole not to attempt an escape without your knowledge, 
since, in fact, it was to meet you that I came to Scotland.^^ 

CHAPTER XXXYI. 

IKTKIGUES OF POLITICS. 

It is not necessary to record in these pages the triumphant 
entrance of the Chevalier into Edinburgh after the decisive 
affair at Preston. 

Waverley was unavoidably delayed by the necessity of ac- 
companying Colonel Talbot to that city. 

They performed the journey together on horseback, and for 
some time, as if to sound each other’s feelings and sentiments, 
they conversed upon general and ordinary topics. 

When Waverley again, entered upon the subject which he 
had most at heart. Colonel Talbot seemed now desirous to 
alleviate his anxiety. This appeared particularly to be the 
case when he heard Waverley’s history. 

And so,” said the Colonel, there has been no malice pre- 
pense, as lawyers, I think, term it, in this rash step of yours. 
It is sadly foolish, to be sure, but not nearly so bad as I was 
led to expect. However, you cannot desert, even from the 
Pretender, at the present moment; that seems impossible. 
But I have little doubt that, in the dissensions incident to 
this heterogeneous mass of wild and desperate men, some 
opportunity may arise, by availing yourself of which you may 
extricate yourself honourably from your rash engagement be- 
fore the bubble burst. If this can be managed, I would have 
you go to a place of safety in Flanders which I shall point out. 
And I think I can secure your pardon from government after 
a few months’ residence abroad.” 


142 


WAVERLEY. 


I cannot permit you, Colonel Talbot/^ answered Waver- 
ley, to speak of any plan which turns on my deserting an 
enterprise in which I may have engaged hastily, but certainly 
voluntarily, and with the purpose of abiding the issue.” 

In Edinburgh they soon arrived. Waverley’s quarters had 
been assigned to him, by the Prince’s express orders, in a 
handsome lodging, where there was accommodation for Colo- 
nel Talbot. His first business was to examine his portman- 
teau, and, after a very short search, out tumbled the expected 
packet. AVaverley opened it eagerly. Under a blank cover, 
simply addressed to E. AYaverley, Esq., he found a number 
of open letters. The uppermost were two from Colonel Gar- 
diner addressed to himself. The earliest in date was a kind 
and gentle remonstrance for neglect of the writer’s advice re- 
specting the disposal of his time during his leave of absence, 
the renewal of which, he reminded Captain A\^averley, would 
speedily expire. am concerned,” the letter proceeded, 
“ to add that there is some discontent in your troop, and I 
postpone inquiry into particulars until I can have the advan- 
tage of your assistance.” 

The second letter, dated eight days later, was in such a 
style as might have been expected from the Colonel’s receiv- 
ing no answer to the first. It reminded A^^averley of his duty 
as a man of honour, an officer, and a Briton; took notice of 
the increasing dissatisfaction of his men, and that some of 
them had been heard to hint that their Captain encouraged 
and approved of their mutinous behaviour; and, finally, the 
writer expressed the utmost regret and surprise that he had 
not obeyed his commands by repairing to headquarters, re- 
minded him that his leave of absence had been recalled, and 
conjured him to redeem his error by immediately joining his 
regiment. That I may be certain,” concluded the letter, 
^^that this actually reaches you, I despatch it by Corporal 
Tims of your troop, with orders to deliver it into your own 
hand.” 


INTEIGUES OF POLITICS. 


143 

Upon reading these letters Waverley, with great bitterness 
of feeling, was compelled to make the amende lionorahW^ to the 
memory of the brave and excellent writer; for snrely, as 
Colonel Gardiner must have had every reason to conclude they 
had come safely to hand, less could not follow than that third 
and final summons, which Waverley actually received at 
Glennaquoich, though too late to obey it. And his being 
superseded, in consequence of his apparent neglect of this 
last command, was so far from being a harsh or severe pro- 
ceeding, that it was plainly inevitable. 

‘^What do you think of all this?” said Colonel Talbot, to 
whom Waverley handed the letters after he had perused them. 

Think! it renders thought impossible. It is enough to 
drive me mad.” 

Be calm, my young friend; let us see what are these dirty 
scrawls that follow.” 

The first was addressed, ^^For Master W. Eufiin, These.” 

Dear sur, sum of our yong gulpins ^ will not bite, thof I 
tuold them you shoed me the squoire’s own seel. But Tims 
will deliver you the letters as desired, and tell ould Addem he 
gave them to squoiFs bond, as to be sure yours is the same, 
and shall be ready for signal, and hoy ^ for Holy Church as 
fadur sings at harvest-whome. 

Yours, deer Sur, 

H. H. 

“Poscriff. — Do’e tell squoire we longs to heer from him, 
and has dootings about his not writing himself, and Life- 
tenant Bottler is smoky.” 

This Eufiin, I suppose, then, is your Donald of the Cav- 
ern, who has intercepted your letters, and carried on a corre- 
spondence with the poor devil Houghton, as if under your 
authority.” 

It seems too true. But who can Addem be ? ” 


* i. e. to make reparation. 


2 simpletons. 


3 hurrah. 


144 


WAVERLEY. 


Possibly Adam, for poor Gardiner, a sort of pnn on his 
name/^ 

The other letters were to the same purpose; and they soon 
received yet more complete light upon Donald Beanes machi- 
nations. 

John Hodges, one of Waverley’s servants, who had re- 
mained with the regiment and had been taken at Preston, now 
made his appearance. Pie had sought out his master with the 
purpose of again entering his service. From this fellow they 
learned that some time after Waverley had gone from the 
headquarters of the regiment, a pedlar, called Euthven, 
Puffin, or Rivane, known among the soldiers by the name of 
Wily Will, had made frequent visits to the town of Dundee. 
He appeared to possess plenty of money, sold his commodities 
very cheap, seemed always willing to treat his friends at the 
ale-house, and easily ingratiated himself with many of Waver- 
ley’s troop, particularly Sergeant Houghton and one Tims, 
also a non-commissioned officer. To these he unfolded, in 
Waverley’s name, a plan for leaving the regiment and join- 
ing him in the Highlands, where report said the clans had al- 
ready taken arms in great numbers. The men, who had been 
educated as Jacobites, as far as they had any opinion at all, 
and who knew their landlord. Sir Everard, had always been 
supposed to hold such tenets, easily fell into the snare. That 
Waverley was at a distance in the Highlands was received as 
a sufficient excuse for transmitting his letters through the 
medium of the pedlar; and the sight of his well-known seal 
seemed to authenticate the negotiations in his name, where 
writing might have been dangerous. The cabal, however, 
began to take air, from the premature mutinous language of 
those concerned. Wily Will justified his appellative; for, after 
suspicion arose, he was seen no more. When the Gazette 
appeared in which Waverley was superseded, great part of 
his troop broke out into actual mutiny, but was surrounded 
and disarmed by the rest of the regiment. In consequence of 


INTRIGUES OF POLITICS. 


145 


the sentence of a court-martial, Houghton and Tims were 
condemned to be shot, but afterwards permitted to cast lots 
for life. Houghton, the survivor, showed much penitence, 
being convinced, from the rebukes and explanations of Colo- 
nel Gardiner, that he had really engaged in a very heinous 
crime. It is remarkable that, as soon as the poor fellow was 
satisfied of this, he became also convinced that the instigator 
had acted without authority from Edward, saying, If it was 
dishonourable and against Old England, the squire could 
know nought about it; he never did, or thought to do, any- 
thing dishonourable, and in that belief he would live and die 
that Eufiin had done it all of his own head.^^ 

The strength of conviction with which he expressed himself 
upon this subject, as well as his assurances that the letters 
intended for Waverley had been delivered to Ruthven, made 
that revolution in Colonel Gardiner’s opinion which he ex- 
pressed to Talbot. 

The reader has long since understood that Donald Bean 
Lean played the part of tempter on this occasion. His mo- 
tives were shortly these. Of an active and intifiguing spirit, 
he had been long employed as a subaltern agent and spy by 
those in the confidence of the Chevalier, to an extent beyond 
what was suspected even by Fergus Mac-Ivor, whom, though 
obliged to him for protection, he regarded with fear and dis- 
like. To success in this political department he naturally 
looked for raising himself by some bold stroke above his pres- 
ent hazardous and precarious trade of rapine. He was par- 
ticularly employed in learning the strength of the regiments 
in Scotland, the character of the ofiicers, etc., and had long 
had his eye upon Waverley’s troop as open to temptation. 
Donald even believed that Waverley himself was at bottom in 
the Stuart interest, which seemed confirmed by his long visit 
to the Jacobite Baron of Bra dwar dine. When, therefore, he 
came to his cave with one of Glennaquoich’s attendants, the 
robber, who could never appreciate his real motive, which 
10 


146 


WAVERLEY. 


was mere curiosity, was so sanguine as to hope that his own 
talents were to be employed in some intrigue of consequence, 
under the auspices of this wealthy young Englishman. Nor 
was he undeceived by Waverley’s neglecting all hints and 
openings afforded for explanation. His conduct passed for 
prudent reserve, and somewhat piqued Donald Bean, who, 
supposing himself left out of a secret where confidence prom- 
ised to be advantageous, determined to have his share in the 
drama, whether a regular part were assigned him or not. For 
this purpose during Waverley’s sleep he possessed himself of 
his seal, as a token to be used to any of the troopers whom he 
might discover to be possessed of the captain’s confidence. 
His first journey to Dundee, the town where the regiment was 
quartered, undeceived him in his original supposition, but 
opened to him a new field of action. He knew there would 
be no service so well rewarded by the friends of the Chevalier 
as seducing a part of the regular army to his standard. For 
this purpose he opened the machinations with which the 
reader is already acquainted, and which form a clue to all the 
intricacies and obscurities of the narrative previous to Waver- 
ley’s leaving Glennaquoich. 

By Colonel Talbot’s advice, Waverley wrote a short state 
of what had happened, to his uncle and his father, cautioning 
them, however, in the present circumstances, not to attempt 
to answer his letter. Talbot then gave the young man a 
letter to the commander of one of the English vessels of war 
cruising in the Frith, requesting him to put the bearer ashore 
at Berwick, with a pass to proceed to shire. 

Tired of the attendance of Callum Beg, who, he thought, 
had some disposition to act as a spy on his motions, Waverley 
hired as a servant a simple Edinburgh swain, who had 
mounted the white cockade in a fit of spleen and jealousy, 
because Jenny Jop had danced a whole night with Corporal 
Bullock of the Fusileers. 


IKTElGtJES OP SOCIETY AND LOVE. 


147 


CHAPTER XXXVIi: 

INTEIGUES OF SOCIETY AND LOVE. 

Colonel Talbot became more kindly in his demeanour 
towards Waverley after the confidence he had reposed in him, 
and, as they were necessarily much together, the character of 
the Colonel rose in Waverley’s estimation. There seemed at 
first something harsh in his strong expressions of dislike and 
censure, although no one was in the general case more open to 
conviction. Even the ladies of the party did not escape his 
censure. He allowed that Flora Mac-Ivor was a fine woman, 
and Rose Bradwardine a pretty girl. But he alleged that the 
former destroyed the effect of her beauty by an affectation 
of the grand airs which she had probably seen practised in 
court. As for Rose Bradwardine, he said it was impossible 
for any mortal to admire such a little uninformed thing, 
whose small portion of education was as ill adapted to her 
sex or youth as if she had appeared with one of her father’s 
old campaign-coats upon her person for her sole garment. 

Waverley, it may easily be believed, looked upon these 
young ladies with very different eyes. During the period of 
the siege he paid them almost daily visits, although he ob- 
served with regret that his suit made as little progress in the 
affections of the former as the arms of the Chevalier in sub- 
duing the fortress. She maintained with rigour the rule she 
had laid down of treating him with indifference, without 
either affecting to avoid him or to shun intercourse with him. 
On the other hand. Rose Bradwardine gradually rose in Wa- 
verley’s opinion. He had several opportunities of remarking 
that, as her extreme timidity wore off, her manners assumed 
a higher character; that the agitating circumstances of the 
stormy time seemed to call forth a certain dignity of feeling 


148 


WAVERLEY. 


and expression which he had not formerly observed; and that 
she omitted no opportunity within her reach to extend her 
knowledge and refine her taste. 

Flora Mac-Ivor called Eose her pupil, and was attentive to 
assist her in her studies, and to fashion both her tastes and 
understanding. It might have been remarked by a very close 
observer that in the presence of Waverley she was much more 
desirous to exhibit her friend^s excellences than her own. 
But I must request of the reader to suppose that this kind and 
disinterested purpose was concealed by the most cautious 
delicacy. 

The real disposition of Waverley, notwithstanding his 
dreams of tented fields and military honour^ seemed to Flora 
exclusively domestic. He asked and received no share in 
the busy scenes which were constantly going on around him, 
and was rather annoyed than interested by the discussion of 
contending claims, rights, and interests which often passed 
in his presence. All this pointed him out in Flora’s eyes 
as the person formed to make happy a spirit like that of Eose, 
which corresponded with his own. But serious complications 
were soon to arise. 

Waverley went one morning to Fergus’s lodgings by ap- 
pointment, to await his return from Holyrood House. “ I 
am to have a particular audience to-morrow,” said Fergus to 
Waverley overnight, and you must meet me to wish me joy 
of the success which I securely anticipate.” 

The morrow came, and in the Chief’s apartment he found 
Ensign Maccombich waiting to make report of his turn of 
duty in a sort of ditch which they had dug across the Castle- 
hill and called a trench. In a short time the Chief’s voice 
was heard on the stair in a tone of impatient fury: Callum! 
why, Callum Beg! Diaoul! ” He entered the room with all 
the marks of a man agitated by a towering passion; and there 
were few upon whose features rage produced a more violent 
effect. The veins of his forehead swelled when he was in 


INTRIGUES OF SOCIETY AND LOVE. 


149 


such agitation; his nostril became dilated; his cheek and eye 
inflamed; and his look that of a demoniac. 

As he entered the apartment he unbuckled his broadsword, 
and throwing it down with such violence that the weapon 
rolled to the other end of the room, “ I know not what,’’ he 
exclaimed, withholds me from taking a solemn oath that I 
will never more draw in his cause. Load my pistols, Callum, 
and bring them hither instantly — instantly! ” Callum, whom 
nothing ever startled, dismayed, or disconcerted, obeyed very 
coolly. Evan Dhu, upon whose brow the suspicion that his 
Chief had been insulted called up a corresponding storm, 
swelled in sullen silence, awaiting to learn where or upon 
whom vengeance was to descend. 

So, Waverley, you are there,” said the Chief, after a mo- 
ment’s recollection. Yes, I remember I asked you to share 
my triumph, and you have come to witness my — disappoint- 
ment we shall call it. I wish to God,” he said, ^^the old 
den would tumble down upon the heads of the fools who 
attack and the knaves who defend it ! I see, Waverley, you 
think I am mad. Leave us, Evan, but be within call.” 

When this officer left the room, the Chieftain gradually re- 
assumed some degree of composure. I know, Waverley,” he 
said, that Colonel Talbot has persuaded you to curse ten 
times a-day your engagement with us; nay, never deny it, for 
I am at this moment tempted to curse my own. Would you 
believe it, I made this very morning two suits to the Prince, 
and he has rejected them both; what do you think of it? ” 

What can I think,” answered Waverley, till I know what 
your requests were ? ” 

Why, what signifies what they were, man? I tell you it 
was I that made them — I to whom he owes more than to any 
three who have joined the standard. You remember my 
carl’s patent; it is dated some years back, for services then 
rendered; and certainly my merit has not been diminished, 
to say the least, by my subsequent behaviour. Now, sir. 


150 


WAVERLEY. 


I value this bauble of a coronet as little as you can, or any 
philosopher on earth. But I had a particular reason for as- 
suming this cursed title at this time. You must know that 
I learned accidentally that the Prince has been pressing that 
old fooli'feh Baron of Bradwardine to disinherit his male heir, 
or nineteenth or twentieth cousin, who has taken a command 
in the Elector of Hanover’s militia, and to settle his estate 
upon your pretty little friend Eose; and this the old gentle- 
man seems well reconciled to. 

Well, sir,” he continued, as Eose Bradwardine would 
always have made a suitable match for me but for this idiot- 
ical predilection of her father for the heir-male, it occurred 
to me there now remained no obstacle unless that the Baron 
might expect his daughter’s husband to take the name of 
Bradwardine, and that this might he evaded by my assum- 
ing the title to which I had so good a right, and which, of 
course, would supersede that difficulty. If she was to be 
also Viscountess Bradwardine in her own right after her 
father’s demise, so much the better; I could have no objec- 
tion.” 

“ But, Fergus,” said Waverley, I had no idea that you had 
any affection for Miss Bradwardine, and you are always sneer- 
ing at her father.” 

“ I have as much affection for Miss Bradwardine, my good 
friend, as I think it necessary to have for the future mistress 
of my family. She is a very pretty, intelligent girl, and is 
certainly of one of the very first Lowland families; and, with a 
little of Flora’s instructions and forming, will make a very 
good figure.” 

But had you asked the Baron’s consent,” said Waverley, 
or Eose’s? ” 

To what purpose? To have spoken to the Baron before I 
had assumed my title would have only provoked a premature 
and irritating discussion on the subject of the change of name, 
when^ as Earl of Glennaquoich, I had only to propose to him 


INTRIGUES OF SOCIETY AND LOVE. 


151 


to carry his d — d bear in a scutcheon of pretence/ or in a 
separate shield perhaps — any way that would not blemish 
my own coat of arms. And as to Eose, I don’t see what 
objection she could have made if her father was satisfied.” 

Perhaps the same that your sister makes to me, you being 
satisfied.” 

Fergus gave a broad stare at the comparison which this sup- 
position implied, but cautiously suppressed the answer which 
rose to his tongue. Oh, we should easily have arranged all 
that. So, sir, I craved a private interview, and this morning 
was assigned; and I asked you to meet me here, thinking, like 
a fool, that I should want your countenance as bride’s-man. 
Well, I state my pretensions — they are not denied; the prom- 
ises so repeatedly made and the patent granted — they are 
acknowledged. But I propose, as a natural consequence, to 
assume the rank which the patent bestowed. I have the old 

story of the jealousy of C and M trump t up against 

me. I resist this pretext, and offer to procure their written 
acquiescence, in virtue of the date of my patent as prior to 
their silly claims. And then out comes the real truth; and 
he dares to tell me to my face that my patent must be sup- 
pressed for the present, for fear of disgusting that rascally 
coward (naming the rival chief of his own clan), who has no 
better title to be a chieftain than I to be Emperor of China. 
And the Prince asks it as a personal favour of me, forsooth, 
not to press my just and reasonable request at this moment. 
After this, put your faith in princes! ” 

And did your audience end here? ” 

End? Oh no! I was determined to leave him no pretence 
for his ingratitude, and I therefore stated, with all the com- 
posure I could muster — for I promise you I trembled with pas- 
sion, — the particular reasons I had for wishing that his Eoyal 
Highness would impose upon me any other mode of exhibit- 
ing my duty and devotion, as my views in life made what at 

• * A scutcheon is heraldry used to display the arms of the bearer’s wife. 


152 


WAVERLEY. 


any other time would have been a mere trifle at this crisis a 
severe sacrifice; and then I explained to him my full plan.” 

And what did the Prince answer? ” 

‘^Answer? why — it is well it is written, ^ Cnrse not the 
king, no, not in thy thought! ’ — why, he answered that truly 
he was glad I had made him my confidant, to prevent more 
grievous disappointment, for he could assure me, upon the 
word of a prince, that Miss Bradwardine’s affections were en- 
gaged, and he was under a particular promise to favour them. 
^ So, my dear Fergus,^ said he, with his most gracious cast 
of smile, ^ as the marriage is utterly out of the question, there 
need be no hurry, you know, about the earldom.^ And so he 
glided off and left me.” 

And what did you do? ” 

I’ll tell you what I could have done at that moment — sold 
myself to the devil or the Elector, whichever offered the dear- 
est revenge. However, I am now cool. I know he intends 
to marry her to some of his rascally Frenchmen or his Irish 
officers, but I will watch them close; and let the man that 
would supplant me look well to himself.” 

After some further conversation, Waverley took leave of 
the Chieftain and returned home, scarce able to analyse the 
mixture of feelings which the narrative had awakened in his 
own bosom. 

I am a very child of caprice,” said Waverley to himself, 
as he bolted the door of his apartment and paced it with hasty 
steps. “ What is it to me that Fergus Mac-Ivor should wish 
to marry Pose Bradwardine? I love her not; I might have 
been loved by her perhaps; but I rejected her simple, natural, 
and affecting attachment, instead of cherishing it into tender- 
ness, and dedicated myself to one who will never love mortal 
man. But, framed as Eose is for domestic affection and ten- 
derness, for giving and receiving all those kind and quiet at- 
tentions which sweeten life to those who pass it together, she 
is sought by Fergus Mac-Ivor. He will not use her ill, to be 


A BRAVE MAN IN SORROW. 


153 


sure; of that he is incapable. But he will neglect her after 
the first month; he will be too intent on subduing some rival 
chieftain or circumventing some favourite at court to inquire 
what she does, or how she amuses herself. And such a 
catastrophe of the most gentle creature on earth might have 
been prevented if Mr. Edward Waverley had had his eyes! 
Upon my word, I cannot understand how I thought Flora 
so much, that is, so very much, handsomer than Eose. She 
is taller indeed, and her manner more formed; hut many 
people think Miss Bradwardine’s more natural; and she is 
certainly much younger.” 

And with this Waverley went to drink tea at the house of 
a lady of quality. 


OHAPTEE XXXVIII. 

A BRAVE MAN IN SORROW. 

There were whole days in which Waverley thought neither 
of Flora nor Eose Bradwardine, but which were spent in mel- 
ancholy conjectures on the probable state of matters at Wa- 
verley-Honour, and the dubious issue of the civil contest in 
which he was pledged. Colonel Talbot, too, often engaged him 
in discussions upon the justice of the cause he had espoused. 

One night, when, after a long dispute of this nature, the 
friends had separated and our hero had retired to bed, he 
was awakened about midnight by a suppressed groan. He 
started up and listened ; it came from the apartment of 
Colonel Talbot, which was divided from his own by a wains- 
cotted partition, with a door of communication. Waverley 
approached this door and distinctly heard one or two deep- 
drawn sighs. What could be the matter ? The Colonel had 
parted from him apparently in his usual state of spirits. He 
must hRve been taken suddenly ill. Under this impression 


154 


WAVERLEY. 


he opened the door of communication very gently, and per- 
ceived the Colonel, in his night-gown, seated by a table, on 
which lay a letter and picture. He raised his head hastily, 
as Edward stood uncertain whether to advance or retire, and 
Waverley perceived that his cheeks were stained with tears. 

Colonel Talbot arose with apparent displeasure, and said, 
with some sternness, think, Mr. Waverley, my own apart- 
ment and the hour might have secured even a prisoner 
against 

Do not say intrusion, Colonel Talbot ; I heard you breathe 
hard and feared you were ill ; that alone could have induced 
me to break in upon you.'’^ 

‘^1 am well,^^ said the Colonel, perfectly well.'’^ 

But you are distressed,” said Edward; is there anything 
can be done 

Nothing, Mr. Waverley; I was only thinking of home, 
and some unpleasant occurrences there.” 

^^Good God, my uncle ! ” exclaimed Waverley. 

No, it is a grief entirely my own. I would have kept it 
secret from you ; for I think it will grieve you, and yet you 
can administer no consolation. But you have surprised me — 
I see you are surprised yourself — and I hate mystery. Bead 
that letter.” 

The letter was from Colonel Talbotts sister, and in these 
words : 

I received yours, my dearest brother, by Hodges. Sir E. 
W. and Mr. E. are still at large, but are not permitted to leave 
London. I wish to Heaven I could give you as good an ac- 
count of matters in the square. But the news of the unhappy 
affair at Preston came upon us, with the dreadful addition 
that you were among the fallen. You know Lady Emily's 
state of health, when your friendship for Sir E. induced you 
to leave her. She was much harassed with the sad accounts 
from Scotland of the rebellion having broken out ; but kept 
up her spirits, as, she said, it became your wife, and for the 
sake of the future heir^ sq long hoped for in vain. Alas, my 


A BRAVE MAN IN SORROW. 


155 


dear brother, these hopes are now ended ! Notwithstanding 
all my watchful care, this unhappy rumour reached her with- 
out preparation. She was taken ill immediately ; and the 
poor infant scarce survived its birth. Would to God this 
were all ! But although the contradiction of the horrible re- 
port by your own letter has greatly revived her spirits, yet 
Dr. apprehends, I grieve to say, serious, and even dan- 

gerous consequences to her health, especially from the uncer- 
tainty in which she must necessarily remain for some time, 
aggravated by the ideas she has formed of the ferocity of those 
with whom you are a prisoner. 

Do, therefore, my dear brother, as soon as this reaches 
you, endeavour to gain your release, by parole, by ransom, or 
any way that is practicable. I do not exaggerate Lady Emily^s 
state of health ; but I must not — dare not — suppress the 
truth. — Ever, my dear Philip, your most affectionate sister, 

‘^Lucy Talbot.^" 

Edward stood motionless when he had perused this letter; 
for the conclusion was inevitable, that, by the ColonePs jour- 
ney in quest of him, he had incurred this heavy calamity. It 
was severe enough, even in its irremediable part ; for Colonel 
Talbot and Lady Emily had fondly exulted in the hopes which 
were now blasted. But this disappointment was nothing to 
the extent of the threatened evil ; and Edward, with horror, 
regarded himself as the original cause of both. 

You must fly — you must fly instantly to her relief. It is 
not — it shall not be too late.” 

Fly ? how is it possible ? I am a prisoner, upon parole.” 

I am your keeper ; I restore your parole ; I am to answer 
for you.” 

You cannot do so consistently with your duty ; nor can I 
accept a discharge from you, with due regard to my own hon- 
our ; you would be made responsible.” 

I will answer it with my head, if necessary,” said Wa- 
verley impetuously. ^^I have been the unhappy cause of the 
loss of your child ; make me not the murderer of your wife.” 

No, my dear Edward,” said Talbot, taking him kindly by 


156 


WAVERLEY. 


the hand, you are in no respect to blame ; and if I concealed 
this domestic distress for two days, it was lest your sensibility 
should view it in that light. You could not think of me, 
hardly knew of my existence, when I left England in quest of 
you. It is a responsibility. Heaven knows, sufficiently heavy 
for mortality, that we must answer for the foreseen and direct 
result of our actions ; for their indirect and consequential 
operation the great and good Being, who alone can foresee 
the dependence of human events on each other, hath not pro- 
nounced his frail creatures liable. But we will talk of this 
to-morrow. Good-night ; strive to forget it for a few hours. 
It will dawn, I think, by six, and it is now past two. Good- 
night.'’^ 

Edward retired, without trusting his voice for a reply. 


CHAPTER XXXIX. 

EXERTION. 

When Colonel Talbot entered the breakfast-parlour next 
morning, he learned from Waverley’s servant that our hero 
had been abroad at an early hour and was not yet returned. 
The morning was well advanced before he again appeared. 
He arrived out of breath, but with an air of joy that aston- 
ished Colonel Talbot. 

There, said he, throwing a paper on the table, there 
is my morning’s work. Alick, pack up the Colonel’s clothes. 
Make haste, make haste.” 

The Colonel examined the paper with astonishment. It was 
a pass from the Chevalier to Colonel Talbot, to repair to 
Leith, or any other port in possession of his Royal Highness’s 
troops, and there to embark for England. 

In the name of God,” said the Colonel, his eyes sparkling 
with eagerness, ^^how did you obtain this ?” 


EXERTION. 


157 


I was at the Chevalier’s levee as soon as he usually rises, 
and obtained an audience. When I first mentioned your 
name, his eyes sparkled almost as bright as yours did two 
minutes since. ^Had you,’ he earnestly asked, ‘shown any 
sentiments favourable to his cause ?’ ‘ Not in the least, nor 

was there any hope you would do so.’ His countenance fell. 
I requested your freedom. ‘ Impossible,’ he said ; ‘ your im- 
portance as a friend and confidant of such and such person- 
ages made my request altogether extravagant.’ I told him 
my own story and yours ; and asked him to judge what my 
feelings must be by his own. He has a heart, and a kind 
one. Colonel Talbot, you may say what you please. He took 
a sheet of paper and wrote the pass with his own hand. ‘ I 
will not trust myself with my council,’ he said; ‘they will 
argue me out of what is right.’” 

“ Well, I never thought to have been so much indebted to 
the Pretend ” 

“ To the Prince,” said Waverley, smiling. 

“ To the Chevalier,” said the Colonel ; “ it is a good travel- 
ling name, and which we may both freely use. Well, dear 
AVaverley, this is more than kind, and shall not be forgotten 
while Philip Talbot can remember anything. I cannot hesi- 
tate on giving my parole. And now, how am I to get off ?” 

“All that is settled; your baggage is packed, my horses 
Avait, and a boat has been engaged, by the Prince’s permis- 
sion, to put you on board the ‘Pox’ frigate. I sent a mes- 
senger down to Leith on purpose.” 

“ That Avill do excellently well. Captain Beaver is my par- 
ticular friend ; he will put me ashore at Berwick or Shields, 
from whence I can ride post to London ; and you must entrust 
me with the packet of papers which you recovered by means 
of your Miss Bean Lean. I may have an opportunity of using 
them to your advantage.” 

“Farewell, Colonel ; may you find all as you would wish it ! 
Perhaps we may meet sooner than you expect.” 


158 


waverley. 


And thus they parted. Colonel Talbot going on board of the 
boat and Waverley returning to Edinburgh. 


CHAPTEK XL. 

THE MARCH. 

It is not our purpose to intrude upon the province of his- 
tory. We shall therefore only remind our readers that about 
the beginning of November* the Young Chevalier, at the head 
of about six thousand men at the utmost, resolved to peril his 
cause on an attempt to penetrate into the centre of England, 
although aware of the mighty preparations which were made 
for his reception. In defiance of a superior army lying upon 
the Borders, under Field-Marshal Wade, they besieged and 
took Carlisle, and soon afterwards prosecuted their daring 
march to the southward. 

Fergus, all air and fire, and confident against the world in 
arms, measured nothing but that every step was a yard nearer 
London. He neither asked, expected, nor desired any aid 
except that of the clans to place the Stuarts once more on the 
throne. Edward^s views were very different. He could not 
but observe that in those towns in which they proclaimed 
James the Third, no man cried, Cod bless him.^^ The mob 
stared and listened, heartless, stupified, and dull, but gave few 
signs even of that boisterous spirit which induces them to 
shout upon all occasions for the mere exercise of their most 
sweet voices. 

But this did not move Fergus. He admired the luxuriant 
beauty of the country, and the situation of many of the seats 
which they passed. Is Waverley-Honour like that house, 
Edward?^* 

It is one-half larger.^^ 


» in 1745. 


THE MARCH. 


159 


‘‘ Is your lindens park as fine a one as that ? ” 

‘^It is three times as extensive, and rather resembles a 
forest than a mere park.'^^ 

Flora will be a happy woman. 
hope Miss Mac-Ivor will have much reason for happi- 
ness unconnected with Waverley-Honour.'’^ 

^‘1 hope so too ; but to be mistress of such a place will be 
a pretty addition to the sum total.'’^ 

An addition, the want of which, I trust, will be amply 
supplied by some other means. 

^^How,^' said Fergus, stopping short and turning upon 
Waverley — ‘^how am I to understand that, Mr. Waverley ? 
Had I the pleasure to hear you aright ? 

Perfectly right, Fergus.’^ 

And am I to understand that you no longer desire my 
alliance and my sister^s hand ? 

^‘Your sister has refused mine,^' said Waverley, ^^both 
directly and by all the usual means by which ladies repress 
undesired attentions. 

I have no idea, answered the Chieftain, ^^of a gentleman 
withdrawing his suit, after it has been approved of by her 
guardian, without giving him an opportunity of talking the 
matter over with the lady."’^ 

As to my title to acquiesce in a rejection from her without 
an appeal to your interest,^^ replied Edward, I will tell you 
plainly, without meaning to undervalue Miss Mac-IvoFs 
admitted beauty and accomplishments, that I would not 
take the hand of an angel, with an empire for her dowry, 
if her consent were extorted by the importunity of friends 
and guardians, and did not fiow from her own inclina- 
tion.^^ 

An angel with the dowry of an empire,^'’ repeated Fergus, 
in a tone of bitter irony, is not very likely to be pressed 

upon a shire squire. But, sir,^^ changing his tone, 

if Flora Mac-Ivor have not the dowry of an empire, she is 


160 


WAVERLEY. 


my sister ; and that is sufficient at least to secure her against 
being treated with anything approaching to levity/^ 

She is Flora Mac-Ivor, sir/^ said Waverley, with firmness, 
which to me, were I capable of treating any woman with 
levity, would be a more effectual protection.’^ 

The brow of the Chieftain was now fully clouded ; but 
Edward felt too indignant at the unreasonable tone which 
he had adopted to avert the storm by the least concession. 

After they had marched on in this sullen manner about a 
mile, Fergus resumed the discourse in a different tone. I 
believe I was warm, my dear Edward, but you provoke me 
with your want of knowledge of the world. I shall write to 
Edinburgh and put all to rights ; that is, if you desire I should 
do so ; as indeed I cannot suppose that your good opinion of 
Flora, it being such as you have often expressed to me, can be 
at once laid aside.” 

Colonel Mac-Ivor,” said Edward, who had no mind to be 
hurried farther or faster than he chose in a matter which he 
had already considered as broken off, am fully sensible of 
the value of your good offices ; and certainly, by your zeal on 
my behalf in such an affair, you do me no small honour. But 
as Miss Mac-Ivorhas made her election freely and voluntarily, 
and as all my attentions in Edinburgh were received with 
more than coldness, I cannot, in justice either to her or 
myself, consent that she should again be harassed upon this 
topic.” 

Oh, very well, Mr. AVaverley,” said Fergus, haughtily, 
the thing is at an end. I have no occasion to press my 
sister upon any man.” 

Gladly at this moment would Mac-Ivor have put their 
quarrel to a personal arbitrament ; his eye fiashed fire, and 
he measured Edward as if to choose where he might best 
plant a mortal wound. But no one knew better than Fergus 
that there must be some decent pretext for a mortal duel. So 
that Fergus was compelled to stomach this supposed affront 


CONFUSION IN THE CAMP. 


161 


until the whirligig of time, whose motion he promised him- 
self he would watch most sedulously, should bring about an 
opportunity of revenge. 

Waverley^s servant always led a saddle-horse for him in the 
rear of the battalion to which he was attached, though his 
master seldom rode. But now, incensed at the domineering 
and unreasonable conduct of his late friend, he fell behind the 
column and mounted his horse, resolving to seek the Baron of 
Bradwardine, and request permission to volunteer in his troop 
instead of the Mac-Ivor regiment. 

The Baron joyfully embraced the opportunity of Waverley^s 
otfering his service in his regiment, to bring it into some ex- 
ertion. The good-natured old gentleman, however, laboured 
to effect a reconciliation between the two quondam friends. 
Fergus turned a cold ear to his remonstrances, though he 
gave them a respectful hearing ; and as for Waverley, he saw 
no reason why he should be the first in courting a renewal 
of the intimacy which the Chieftain had so unreasonably 
disturbed. 


CHAPTEE XLI. 

CONFUSION IN THE CAMP. 

It was Waverley ’s custom sometimes to ride a little apart 
from the main body, to look at any object of curiosity which 
occurred on the march. They were now in Lancashire, when, 
attracted by a castellated old hall, he left the squadron for 
half an hour to take a survey and slight sketch of it. As he 
returned down the avenue he was met by Ensign Maccombich. 
This man had contracted a sort of regard for Edward since 
the day of his first seeing him at Tully-Veolan and intro- 
ducing him to the Highlands. He seemed to loiter, as if on 
purpose to meet with our hero. Yet, as he passed him, he 
only approached his stirrup and pronounced the single word 
11 


162 


WAVERLEY. 


^'Beware!” and then walked swiftly on, shunning all fur- 
ther communication. 

Edward, somewhat surprised at this hint, followed with 
his eyes the course of Evan, who speedily disappeared among 
the trees. His servant, Alick Polwarth, who was in attend- 
ance, also looked after the Highlander, and then riding up 
close to his master, said : 

^^The ne^er be in me, sir, if I think your safe amang thae 
Highland rinthereouts.'’^ ^ 

What do you mean, Alick ? said Waverley. 

The Mac-Ivors, sir, hae gotten it into their heads that 
ye hae affronted their young leddy. Miss Flora ; and I hae 
heard mae than ane say, they wadna tak muckle to mak a 
black-cock o’ ye ; ^ and ye ken weel enough there’s, mony o’ 
them wadna mind a bawbee the weising ® a ball through the 
Prince himsell, an the Chief gae them the wink, or whether 
he did or no, if they thought it a thing that would please 
him when it was dune.” 

Waverley, though confident that Fergus Mac-Ivor was in- 
capable of such treachery, was by no means equally sure of 
the forbearance of his followers. He Judged it most prudent 
to set spurs to his horse and ride briskly back to the squad- 
ron. Ere he reached the end of the long avenue, however, 
a ball whistled past him, and the report of a pistol was 
heard. 

"Mt was that deevil’s buckie, Callum Beg,” said Alick; 

I saw him whisk away through amang the reises.”^ 

Edward, justly incensed at this act of treachery, galloped 
out of the avenue, and observed the battalion of Mac-Ivor at 
some distance moving along the common in which it termi- 
nated. He also saw an individual running very fast to join 
the party ; this he concluded was the intended assassin. Un- 
able to contain himself, he commanded Alick to go to the 
Baron of Bradwardine, who was at the head of his regiment 

1 cut-throats, vagabonds. ^ i. e. kill you. * whisking. < brushwood. 


CONFUSION IN THE CAMP. 


163 


about half a mile in front, and acquaint him with what had 
happened. He himself immediately rode up to Ferguses 
regiment. The Chief himself was in the act of joining them. 
On perceiving Edward approaching, he put his horse in 
motion towards him. 

Colonel Mac-Ivor,’^ said Waverley, without any farther 
salutation, I have to inform you that one of your people 
has this instant fired at me from a lurking-place.^^ 

As that,^^ answered Mac-Ivor, excepting the circum- 
stance of a lurking-place, is a pleasure which I presently 
propose to myself, I should be glad to know which of my 
clansmen dared to anticipate me.-’^ 

I shall certainly be at your command whenever you 
please ; the gentleman who took your office upon himself is 
your page there, Callum Beg.'’^ 

Stand forth from the ranks, Callum ! Did you fire at 
Mr. Waverley?” 

Ho,” answered the unblushing Callum. 

You did,” said Alick Polwarth, who was already re- 
turned, having met a trooper by whom he despatched an 
account of what was going forward to the Baron of Brad- 
wardine. You did ; I saw you as plainly as I ever saw the 
auld kirk at Coudingham.” 

You lie,” replied Callum, with his usual inpenetrable 
obstinacy. Fergus, with his usual tone of decision, de- 
manded Callum^s pistol. The cock was down, the pan and 
muzzle were black with the smoke ; it had been that instant 
fired. 

Take that,” said Fergus, striking the boy upon the head 
with the heavy pistol-butt with his whole force — ^^take that 
for acting without orders, and lying to disguise it.” Callum 
received the blow without appearing to flinch from it, and fell 
without sign of life. Stand still, upon your lives ! ” said 
Fergus to the rest of the clan ; I will blow out the brains 
of the first man who interferes between Mr. Waverley and 


164 


WAVERLEY. 


me.” They stood motionless ; Evan Dim alone showed 
symptoms of vexation and anxiety. Callum lay on the 
ground bleeding copiously, but no one ventured to give him 
any assistance. It seemed as if he had gotten his death- 
blow. 

And now for you, Mr. Waverley ; please to turn your 
horse twenty yards with me upon the common.” Waverley 
complied ; and Fergus, confronting him, said, with great 
affected coolness : I could not but wonder, sir, at the 
fickleness of taste which you were pleased to express the 
other day.” 

I am at a loss even to guess at your meaning. Colonel 
Mac-Ivor, unless it seems plain that you intend to fasten a 
quarrel upon me.” 

Your affected ignorance shall not serve you, sir. The 
Prince — the Prince himself has acquainted me with your 
manoeuvres. I little thought that your engagements with 
Miss Bradwardine were the reason of your breaking off your 
intended match with my sister. I suppose the information 
that the Baron had altered the destination of his estate was 
quite a sufficient reason for slighting your friend’s sister and 
carrying off your friend’s mistress.” 

Did the Prince tell you I was engaged to Miss Bradwar- 
dine ?” said Waverley. Impossible.” 

He did, sir,” answered Mac-Ivor ; so, either draw and 
defend yourself, or resign your pretensions to the lady.” 

^^Must I fight in a madman’s quarrel ?” 

Then give up now, and for ever, all pretensions to Miss 
Brad war dine’s hand.” 

What title have you,” cried Waverley, utterly losing 
command of himself — ^^what title have you, or any man 
living, to dictate such terms to me ?” And he also drew 
his sword. 

At this moment the Baron of Bradwardine, followed by 
several of his troop, came up on the spur. The clan, seeing 


CONFUSION IN THE CAMP. 


165 


them approach, put themselves in motion to support their 
Chieftain, and a scene of confusion commenced which seemed 
likely to terminate in bloodshed. The Baron lectured, the 
Chieftain stormed, the Highlanders screamed in Gaelic, the 
horsemen cursed and swore in Lowland Scotch. At length 
matters came to such a pass that the Baron threatened to 
charge the Mac-Ivors unless they resumed their ranks, and 
many of them, in turn, presented their fire-arms at him and 
the other troopers. Suddenly a cry arose of ^^Koom ! make 
way ! place a Monseigneur ! place a Monseigneur ! ^ This 
announced the approach of the Prince, who came up with a 
party of Fitz- James’s foreign dragoons that acted as his body- 
guard. His arrival produced some degree of order. The 
Highlanders reassumed their ranks, the cavalry fell in and 
formed squadron, and the Baron and Chieftain w'ere silent. 

The Prince called them and Waverley before him. Having 
heard the original cause of the quarrel through the villainy 
of Callum Beg, he ordered him into custody of the provost- 
marshal for immediate execution, in the event of his surviv- 
ing the chastisement infiicted by his Chieftain. Fergus, 
however, in a tone betwixt claiming a right and asking a 
favour, requested he might be left to his disposal, and prom- 
ised his punishment should be exemplary. To deny this 
might have seemed to encroach on the patriarchal authority 
of the Chieftains, of which they were very jealous, and they 
were not persons to be disobliged. Callum was therefore left 
to the justice of his own tribe. 

The Prince next demanded to know the new cause of quarrel 
between Colonel Mac-Ivor and Waverley. 

If I owed less to your disinterested friendship,” he said, 

I could be most seriously angry with both of you for this 
very extraordinary and causeless broil, at a moment when my 
father’s service so decidedly demands the most perfect una- 
nimity. But the worst of my situation is, that my very best 

* i.e. “ Room for the Prince I ” 


166 


WAVERLEY. 


friends hold they have liberty to ruin themselves, as well as 
the cause they are engaged in, upon the slightest caprice/^ 
Both the young men protested their resolution to submit 
every difference to his arbitration. ‘^Indeed,""' said Edward, 
I hardly know of what I am accused. I sought Colonel 
Mac-Ivor merely to mention to him that I had narrowly 
escaped assassination at the hand of his immediate dependent, 
a dastardly revenge which I knew him to be incapable of 
authorising. As to the cause for which he is disposed to 
fasten a quarrel upon me, I am ignorant of it, unless it be 
that he accuses me, most unjustly, of having engaged the 
affections of a young lady in prejudice of his pretensions.^^ 

If there is an error, said the Chieftain, it arises from 
a conversation which I held this morning with his Royal 
Highness himself.^'’ 

With me said the Chevalier ; ^Miow can Colonel Mac- 
Ivor have so far misunderstood me ? 

He then led Fergus aside, and, after five minutes^ earnest 
conversation, spurred his horse towards Edward. Is it pos- 
sible — nay, ride, up. Colonel, for I desire no secrets, — is it 
possible, Mr. Waverley, that I am mistaken in supposing that 
you are an accepted lover of Miss Bradwardine ? a fact of 
which I was by circumstances, though not by communication 
from you, so absolutely .convinced that I alleged it to Vich Ian 
Vohr this morning as a reason why, without offence to him, 
you might not continue to be ambitious of an alliance which 
to an unengaged person, even though once repulsed, holds 
out too many charms to be lightly laid aside. 

'*Your Royal Highness,’^ said Waverley, ‘'must have 
founded on circumstances altogether unknown to me, when 
you did me the distinguished honour of supposing me an 
accepted lover of Miss Bradwardine.'’^ 

The Chevalier was silent for a moment, looking steadily at 
them both, and then said : “Upon my word, Mr. Waverley, 
you are a less happy man than I conceived I had very good 


A SKIKMISH. 


167 


reason to believe you. But now, gentlemen, allow me to be 
umpire in this matter, not as Prince Regent, but as Charles 
Stuart, a brother adventurer with you in the same gallant 
cause. 

He took Fergus a little apart and spoke to him very 
earnestly for two or three minutes, and then returning to 
Waverley, said : believe I have satisfied Colonel Mac-Ivor 

that his resentment was founded upon a misconception, to 
which, indeed, I myself gave rise ; and I trust Mr. Waverley 
is too generous to harbour any recollection of what is past 
when I assure him that such is the case. You must state this 
matter properly to your clan, Vich Ian Vohr, to prevent a 
recurrence of their precipitate violence.” Fergus bowed. 

And now, gentlemen, let me have the pleasure to see you 
shake hands.” 

They advanced coldly, and with measured steps, each ap- 
parently reluctant to appear most forward in concession. 
They did, however, shake hands, and parted, taking a respect- 
ful leave of the Chevalier. 


CHAPTER XLII. 

A SKIRMISH. 

The reader need hardly be reminded that, after a council 
of war held at Derby on the 5th of December, the Highlanders 
relinquished their desperate attempt to penetrate farther into 
England, and, greatly to the dissatisfaction of their young 
and daring leader, positively determined to return northward. 
They commenced their retreat accordingly, and, by the ex- 
treme celerity of their movements, outstripped the motions of 
the Duke of Cumberland, who now pursued them with a very 
large body of cavalry. 

The retreat had continued for several days, when Edward, 


168 


WAVERLEY. 


to his surprise, early on the 12th of December, received a 
visit from the Chieftain in his quarters, in a hamlet about 
half-way between Shap and Penrith. 

Waverley could not help being surprised, and somewhat 
shocked, with the change in his appearance. His eye had lost 
much of its fire; his cheek was hollow, his voice was languid, 
even his gait seemed less firm and elastic than it was wont. 
He invited Edward to walk out with him by the little river 
in the vicinity. 

As soon as they were in a wild sequestered path by the side 
of the stream, the Chief broke out: Our fine adventure is 
now totally ruined, Waverley, and I wish to know what you 
intend to do; — ^nay, never stare at me, man. I tell you I re- 
ceived a packet from my sister yesterday, and, had I got the 
information it contains sooner, it would have prevented a 
quarrel which I am always vexed when I think of. In a letter 
written after our dispute, I acquainted her with the cause of 
it; and she now replies to me that she never had, nor could 
have, any purpose of giving you encouragement; so that it 
seems I have acted like a madman. Poor Flora! she writes 
in high spirits; what a change will the news of this unhappy 
retreat make in her state of mind! 

Waverley, who was really much affected by the deep tone of 
melancholy with which Fergus spoke, affectionately entreated 
him to banish from his remembrance any unkindness which 
had arisen between them, and they once more shook hands, 
but now with sincere cordiality. Fergus again inquired of 
Waverley what he intended to do. Had you not better 
leave this luckless army, and get down before us into Scot- 
land, and embark for the Continent from some of the eastern 
ports that are still in our possession? When you are out of 
the kingdom, your friends will easily negotiate your pardon; 
and, to tell you the truth, I wish you would carry Eose Brad- 
wardine with you as your wife, and take Flora also under your 
joint protection.” 


A SKIRMISH. 


169 


How/^ answered Edward, can you advise me to desert 
the expedition in which we are all embarked? 

Embarked? said Fergus; the vessel is going to pieces, 
and it is full time for all who can to get into the long-boat 
and leave her.” 

And while you recommend flight to me,” said Edward, — 

a counsel which I would rather die than embrace, — what are 
your own views? ” 

Oh,” answered Fergus, with a melancholy air, my fate is 
settled. Dead or captive I must be before to-morrow.” 

“What do you mean by that, my 'friend?” said Edward. 
“ The enemy is still a day’s march in our rear, and if he comes 
up, we are still strong enough to keep him in check.” 

“ What I tell you is true notwithstanding, so far as I am 
individually concerned.” 

“ Upon what authority can you found so melancholy a pre- 
diction? ” asked Waverley. 

“ On one which never failed a person of my house. I have 
seen,” he said, lowering his voice, “ I have seen the Bodach 
Glas.” 

“Bodach Glas?” 

“ Yes; have you been so long at Glennaquoich, and never 
heard of the Grey Spectre? though indeed there is a certain 
reluctance among us to mention him.” 

“Uo, never.” 

“ Ah! it would have been a tale for poor Flora to have told 
you. You must know, then, that when my ancestor, Ian 
nan Chaistel, wasted Northumberland, there was associated 
with him in the expedition a sort of Southland Chief, or 
captain of a band of Lowlanders, called Halbert Hall. In 
their return through the Cheviots they quarrelled about the 
division of the great booty they had acquired, and came from 
words to blows. The Lowlanders were cut off to a man, and 
their chief fell the last, covered with wounds by the sword 
of my ancestor. Since that time his spirit has crossed the 


170 


WAVERLEY. 


Yich Ian Vohr of the day when any great disaster was im- 
pending, but especially before approaching death. My father 
saw him twice, once before he was made prisoner at Sheriff- 
Muir, another time on the morning of the day on which he 
died.^’ 

How can you, my dear Fergus, tell such nonsense with a 
grave face?” 

I do not ask you to believe it; hut I tell you the truth, 
ascertained by three hundred years’ experience at least, and 
last night by my own eyes.” 

The particulars, for Heaven’s sake! ” said Waverley, with 
eagerness. 

Since this unhappy retreat commenced I have scarce 
ever been able to sleep. Last night I felt so feverish that I 
left my quarters and walked out, in hopes the keen frosty 
air would brace my nerves. I crossed a small footbridge, 
and kept walking backwards and forwards, when I observed 
with surprise by the clear moonlight a tall figure in a grey 
plaid, such as shepherds wear in the south of Scotland, which, 
move at what pace I would, kept regularly about four yards 
before me.” 

^^You saw a Cumberland peasant in his ordinary dress, 
probably.” 

No; I thought so at first, and was astonished at the man’s 
audacity in daring to dog me. I called to him, hut received 
no answer. I felt an anxious throbbing at my heart, and to- 
ascertain what I dreaded, I stood still and turned myself on 
the same spot successively to the four points of the compass. 
By Heaven, Edward, turn where I would, the figure was in- 
stantly before my eyes, at precisely the same distance! I was 
then convinced it was the Bodach Clas. My hair bristled and 
my knees shook. I manned myself, however, and determined 
to return to my quarters. My ghastly visitant glided before 
me until he reached the footbridge; there he stopped and 
turned full round. I made the sign of the cross, drew my 


A SKIEMISH. 


171 


sword, and uttered, ^ In the name of God, Evil Spirit, give 
place! ’ ^ Vich Ian Vohr,^ it said, in a voice that made my 

very blood curdle, ^ beware of to-morrow! ^ The words were 
no sooner spoken than it was gone, and nothing appeared 
further to obstruct my passage/’ 

Edward had little doubt that this phantom was the opera- 
tion of an exhausted frame and depressed spirits, working on 
the belief common to all Highlanders in such superstitions. 
He did not the less pity Fergus, for whom, in his present 
distress, he felt all his former regard revive. With the view 
of diverting his mind from these gloomy images, he offered 
to remain in his quarters till Fergus’s corps should come up, 
and then to march with them as usual. The Chief seemed 
much pleased. 

Well,” replied the Chieftain, let Alick have your horse 
in readiness, in case we should be overmatched, and I should 
be delighted to have your company once more.” 

The rear-guard was late in making their appearance. 
When Waverley joined it, arm-in-arm with their Chieftain, 
all the resentment they had entertained against him seemed 
blown off at once. Evan Dhu received him with a grin of 
congratulation; and even Callum, who was running about as 
active as ever, pale indeed, and with a great patch on his 
head, appeared delighted to see him. 

They were now in full march, every caution being taken to 
prevent surprise. Fergus’s people, and a fine clan regiment 
from Badenoch, commanded by Cluny Mac-Pherson, had the 
rear. They had passed a large open moor, and were entering 
into the inclosures which surround a small village called 
Clifton. The winter sun had set, and Edward began to rally 
Fergus upon the false predictions of the Grey Spirit. The 
ides of March are not past,” said Mac-Ivor, with a smile; 
when, suddenly casting his eyes back on the moor, a large 
body of cavalry was indistinctly seen to hover upon its brown 
and dark surface. To line the inclosures facing the open 


172 


WAVERLEY. 


ground and the road by which the enemy must move from it 
upon the village was the work of a short time. While these 
manoeuvres were accomplishing, night sunk down, dark and 
gloomy, though the moon was at full. 

The Highlanders did not long remain undisturbed in the 
defensive position they had adopted. Favoured by the night, 
one large body of dismounted dragoons attempted to force the 
inclosures, while another, equally strong, strove to penetrate 
by the highroad. Both were received by such a heavy fire as 
disconcerted their ranks and effectually checked their prog- 
ress. Unsatisfied with the advantage thus gained, Fergus, to 
whose ardent spirit the approach of danger seemed to restore 
all its elasticity, drawing his sword and calling - out “ Clay- 
more! encouraged his men, by voice and example, to break 
through the hedge which divided them and rush down upon 
the enemy. Mingling with the dismounted dragoons, they 
forced them, at the sword-point, to fly to the open moor, 
where a considerable number were cut to pieces. But the 
moon, which suddenly shone out, showed to the English the 
small number of assailants, disordered by their own success. 
Two squadrons of horse moving to the support of their com- 
panions, the Highlanders endeavoured to recover the inclos- 
ures. But several of them, amongst others their brave Chief- 
tain, were cut off and surrounded before they could effect 
their purpose. Waverley, looking eagerly for Fergus, from 
whom, as well as from the retreating body of his followers, he 
had been separated in the darkness and tumult, saw him, with 
Evan Dhu and Callum, defending themselves desperately 
against a dozen of horsemen, who were hewing at them with 
their long broadswords. The moon was again at that moment 
totally overclouded and Edward, in the obscurity, could 
neither bring aid to his friends nor discover which way lay 
his own road to rejoin the rear-guard. After once or twice 
narrowly escaping being slain or made prisoner by parties of 
the cavalry whom he encountered in the darkness, he at 


CHAPTER OF ACCIDENTS. 


173 


length reached an inclosure, and, clambering over it, con- 
cluded himself in safety and on the way to the Highland 
forces, whose pipes he heard at some distance. For Fergus 
hardly a hope remained, unless that he might be made 
prisoner. 


CHAPTEE XLIII. 

CHAPTER OE ACCIDENTS. 

Edward was in a most unpleasant and dangerous situation. 
He soon lost the sound of the bagpipes; and, what was yet 
more unpleasant, when, after searching long in vain and 
scrambling through many inclosures, he at length approached 
the highroad, he learned, from the unwelcome noise of kettle- 
drums and trumpets, that the English cavalry now occupied 
it, and consequently were between him and the Highlanders. 
Precluded, therefore, from advancing in a straight direction, 
he resolved to avoid the English military and endeavour to 
join his friends by making a circuit to the left. 

After walking about three miles, he at length reached a 
hamlet, and approached the alehouse of the place. There 
was a great noise within. A round English oath or two con- 
vinced him the hamlet also was occupied by the Duke of 
Cumberland’s soldiers. Endeavouring to retire from it as 
softly as possible, Waverley groped his way the best he could 
along a small paling, which seemed the boundary of some cot- 
tage garden. As he reached the gate of this little inclosure, 
his outstretched hand was grasped by that of a female, whose 
voice at the same time uttered, Edward, is’t thou, man?” 

Here is some unlucky mistake,” thought Edward, strug- 
gling, but gently, to disengage himself. 

FTaen o’ thy foun, now, man, or the red cwoats will hear 
thee; they hae been houlerying and poulerying every ane 
that past alehouse door this noight to make them drive their 


174 


WAVERLEY. 


waggons and sick loike. Come into feyther’s, or they’ll do 
ho a mischief.” 

good hint,” thought Waverley, following the girl 
through the little garden into a brick-paved kitchen, where 
she set herself to kindle a match at an expiring fire, and with 
the match to light a candle. She had no sooner looked on 
Edward than she dropped the light, with a shrill scream of 

0 feyther, feyther! ” 

The father, thus invoked, speedily appeared — a sturdy old 
farmer, in a pair of leather breeches, and boots pulled on 
without stockings, having Just started from his bed; the rest 
of his dress was only a Westmoreland statesman’s robe-de- 
chambre — that is, his shirt. His figure was displayed to ad- 
vantage by a candle which he bore in his left hand; in his 
right he brandished a poker. 

What hast ho here, wench? ” 

Oh! ” cried the poor girl, almost going off in hysterics, 

1 thought it was Ned Williams, and it is one of the plaid- 
men.” 

And thee, lad, dost ho know that the dragoons he a town? 
dost ho know that, mon? ad, they’ll sliver thee loike a turnip, 
mon.” 

I know my life is in great danger,” said Waverley, but 
if you can assist me, I will reward you handsomely. I am no 
Scotchman, but an unfortunate English gentleman.” 

Be ho Scot or no,” said the honest farmer, I wish thou 
hadst kept the other side of the hallan.^ But since thou art 
here, Jacob Jopson will betray no man’s hluid, and the 
plaids were gay canny,^ and did not do so much mischief when 
they were here yesterday.” Accordingly, he set seriously 
about sheltering and refreshing our hero for the night. 

With the morning arrived the news that the Highlanders 
had evacuated Penrith, and marched off towards Carlisle; that 
the Duke of Cumberland was in possession of Penrith, and that 
detachments of his army covered the roads in every direction. 

* A partition wall. » very careful. 


CHAPTER OF ACCIDENTS. 


175 


To attempt to get through undiscovered would be an act of 
the most frantic temerity. Ned Williams was now called to 
council by the farmer and his daughter, who was named 
Cicely. Ned proposed that Waverley, exchanging his uniform 
and plaid for the dress of the country, should go with him to 
his father’s farm near Ulswater, and remain in that undis- 
turbed retirement until the military movements in the coun- 
try should have ceased to render his departure hazardous. 

The necessary articles of dress were accordingly procured, 
and, by following by-paths known to the young farmer, they 
hoped to escape any unpleasant rencontre} 

In the course of their route Edward, with his guide, tra- 
versed those fields which the night before had been the scene 
of action. He resolved to go upon the open heath and search 
if, among the slain, he could discover the body of his friend, 
with the pious intention of procuring for him the last rites of 
sepulture. The timorous young man who accompanied him 
remonstrated upon the danger of the attempt, but Edward 
was determined. The followers of the camp had already 
stripped the dead of all they could carry away; but the country 
people, unused to scenes of blood, had not yet approached 
the field of action, though some stood fearfully gazing at a 
distance. About sixty or seventy dragoons lay slain within 
the first inclosure, upon the highroad, and on the open moor. 
Of the Highlanders, not' above a dozen had fallen, chiefiy 
those who, venturing too far on the moor, could not regain 
the strong ground. He could not find the body of Fergus 
among the slain. On a little knoll, separated from the others, 
lay the carcasses of three English dragoons, two horses, and 
the page Callum Beg, whose hard skull a trooper’s broadsword 
had, at length, effectually cloven. It was possible his clan 
had carried off the body of Fergus; but it was also possible 
he had escaped, especially as Evan Dhu, who would never 
leave his Chief, was not found among the dead; or he might 
be prisoner, and the less formidable denunciation inferred 

* meeting. 


176 


WAVERLEY. 


from the appearance of the Bodach Glas might have proved 
the true one. 

After leaving this field of death, the rest of their journey 
was happily accomplished. At the house of Farmer Wil- 
liams, Edward passed for a young kinsman, educated for the 
church, who had come to reside there till the civil tumults per- 
mitted him to pass through the country. A variety of inci- 
dents prolonged his stay at Fasthwaite, as the farm was called. 

A tremendous fall of snow rendered his departure impos- 
sible for more than ten days. When the roads began to be- 
come a little practicable, they successively received news of 
the retreat of the Chevalier into Scotland; then, that he had 
abandoned the frontiers, retiring upon Glasgow; and that the 
Duke of Cumberland had formed the siege of Carlisle. His 
army, therefore, cut off all possibility of Wayerley’s escap- 
ing into Scotland in that direction. On the eastern border 
Marshal Wade, with a large force, was advancing upon Edin- 
burgh; and all along the frontier, parties of militia, volun- 
teers, and partizans were in arms to suppress insurrections, 
and apprehend such stragglers from the Highland army as 
had been left in England. The surrender of Carlisle, and the 
severity with which the rebel garrison were threatened, soon 
formed an additional reason against venturing upon a solitary 
and hopeless journey through a hostile country and a large 
army, to carry the assistance of a single sword to a cause 
which seemed altogether desperate. 

CHAPTEE XLIV. 

A JOURNEY TO LONDON. 

In the end of January^ a clergyman who came to the ham- 
let brought with him two or three old newspapers, in one of 
which Edward found a piece of intelligence that soon ren- 
dered him deaf to all else. This was an article in these words: 


» 1746 . 


A JOURNEY TO LONDON. 


177 


Died at his house, in Hill Street, Berkeley Square, upon 
the 10th inst., Eichard Waverley, Esq., second son of Sir 
Giles Waverley of Waverley-Honour, etc., etc. He died of a 
lingering disorder, augmented by the unpleasant predicament 
of suspicion in which he stood, having been obliged to find 
bail to a high amount to meet an impending accusation of 
high treason. An accusation of the same grave crime hangs 
over his elder brother. Sir Everard Waverley, the representa- 
tive of that ancient family; and we understand the day of his 
trial will be fixed early in the next month, unless Edward 
Waverley, son of the deceased Eichard, and heir to the 
Baronet, shall surrender himself to justice. In that case we 
are assured it is his Majesty’s gracious purpose to drop further 
proceedings upon the charge against Sir Everard. This un- 
fortunate young gentleman is ascertained to have been in 
arms in the Pretender’s service, and to have marched along 
with the Highland troops into England. But he has not been 
heard of since the skirmish at Clifton, on the 18th of Decem- 
ber last.” 

Waverley at once reached a decision. He explained to his 
friends that he was under the necessity of going to London 
with as little delay as possible, and took a place in the north- 
ern diligence, a huge old-fashioned tub, drawn by three 
horses, which completed the journey from Edinburgh to 
London (God willing, as the advertisement expressed it) in 
three weeks. 

It was twilight, on the last day of an anxious trip when 
the diligence arrived in town; and having shaken off his com- 
panions, and walked through a good many streets to avoid 
the possibility of being traced by them, Edward took a 
hackney-coach and drove to Colonel Talbot’s house, in one 
of the principal squares at the west end of the town. 

When Waverley knocked at his door he found it at first 
difficult to procure admittance, but at length was shown into 
an apartment where the Colonel was at table. Lady Emily, 
whose very beautiful features were still pallid from indispo- 
sition, sat opposite to him. The instant he heard Waverley’s 
12 


178 


WAVERLEY. 


voice, he started up and embraced him. Frank Stanley, 
my dear boy, how d^ye do? Emily, my love, this is young 
Stanley.” 

The blood started to the lady’s cheek as she gave Waverley 
a reception in which courtesy was mingled with kindness, 
while her trembling hand and faltering voice showed how 
much she was startled and discomposed. Dinner was hastily 
replaced, and while Waverley was engaged in refreshing him- 
self, the Colonel proceeded: wonder you have come here, 

Frank; the doctors tell me the air of London is very bad for 
your complaints. You should not have risked it. But I am 
delighted to see you, and so is Emily, though I fear we must 
not reckon upon your staying long.” 

“ Some particular business brought me up,” muttered 
Waverley. 

I supposed so, but I sha’n’t allow you to stay long. Spon- 
toon ” (to an elderly military-looking servant out of livery), 
take away these things, and answer the bell yourself, if I 
ring. Don’t let any of the other fellows disturb us. My 
nephew and I have business to talk of.” 

When the servants had retired, In the name of God, 
Waverley, what has brought you here? It may be as much as 
your life is worth.” 

Dear Mr. Waverley,” said Lady Emily, to whom I owe- 
so much more than acknowledgments can ever pay, how could 
you be so rash? ” 

“ My father — my uncle — this paragraph,” — he handed the 
paper to Colonel Talbot. 

I wish to Heaven these scoundrels were condemned to be 
squeezed to death in their own presses,” said Talbot. I am 
told there are not less than a dozen of their papers now pub- 
lished in town, and no wonder that they are obliged to invent 
lies to find sale for their journals. It is true, however, my 
dear Edward, that you have lost your father; but as to this 
flourish of his unpleasant situation having grated upon his 
spirit and hurt his health — the truth is — ^for though it is 


A JOURNEY TO LONDON. 


179 


harsh to say so now, yet it will relieve your mind from the 
idea of weighty responsibility — the truth then is, that Mr. 
Richard Waverley, through this whole business, showed great 
want of sensibility, both to your situation and that of your 
uncle.’’ 

And my uncle, my dear uncle? ” 

Is in no danger whatever. It is true there was a foolish 
report some time ago to the purport here quoted, but it 
is entirely false. Sir Everard is gone down to Waverley- 
Honour, freed from all uneasiness, unless upon your own 
account. But you are in peril yourself; your name is in every 
proclamation; warrants are out to apprehend you. How and 
when did you come here? ” 

Edward told his story at length, suppressing his quarrel 
with Fergus. 

To-morrow,” said the Colonel, you must be indisposed, 
and keep your room from fatigue. Lady Emily is to be your 
nurse, and Spontoon and I your attendants. You are to bear 
the name of a near relation of mine, Frank Stanley, whom 
none of my present people ever saw, except Spontoon, so 
there will be no immediate danger. So pray feel your head 
ache and your eyes grow heavy as soon as possible, that you 
may be put upon the sick-list.” 

In the morning the Colonel visited his guest. “How,” 
said he, “ I have some good news for you. Your reputation 
as a gentleman and officer is effectually cleared of neglect of 
duty and accession to the mutiny in Gardiner’s regiment. I 
have had a correspondence on this subject with a very zealous 
friend of yours, your Scottish parson, Morton; his first letter 
was addressed to Sir Everard; but I relieved the good Baronet 
of the trouble of answering it. You must know, that your 
freebooting acquaintance, Donald of the Cave, has at length 
fallen into the hands of the Philistines. He was driving off 
the cattle of a certain proprietor, called Killan — something 
or other ” 


180 


WAVERLEY. 


Killancureit? 

The same. Now the gentleman being, it seems, a great 
farmer, and having a special value for his breed of cattle; 
being, moreover, rather of a timid disposition, had got a party 
of soldiers to protect his property. So Donald ran his head 
unawares into the lion’s mouth, and was defeated and made 
prisoner. Being ordered for execution, he confessed, before 
a magistrate, one Major Melville, his full intrigue with 
Houghton, explaining particularly how it was carried on, and 
fully acquitting you of the least accession to it. He also 
mentioned his rescuing you from the hands of the volunteer 
officer, and sending you, by orders of the Pret — Chevalier, I 
mean — ^^as a prisoner to Donne, from whence he understood 
you were carried prisoner to Edinburgh. These are par- 
ticulars which cannot but tell in your favour. He hinted that 
he had been employed to deliver and protect you, and re- 
warded for doing so; but he would not confess by whom.” 

And what is become of him? ” 

Oh, he was hanged at Stirling after the rebels raised the 
siege, with his lieutenant and four plaids ^ besides; he having 
the advantage of a gallows more lofty than his friends.” 

^^Well, I have little cause either to regret or rejoice at his 
death; and yet he has done me both good and harm to a very 
considerable extent.” 

His confession, at least, will serve you materially, since ■ 
it wipes from your character all those suspicions which gave 
the accusation against you a complexion of a nature different 
from that with which so many unfortunate gentlemen, now or 
lately in arms against the government, may be justly charged. 
Their treason — I must give it its name, though you partici- 
pate in its guilt — is an action arising from mistaken virtue, 
and therefore cannot be classed as a disgrace, though it be 
doubtless highly criminal. Where the guilty are so numerous, 
clemency must be extended to far the greater number; and 

» i.e. four who wore the plaid. 


A JOURNEY TO LONDON. 


181 


I have little doubt of procuring a remission for you, providing 
we can keep you out of the claws of justice till she has 
selected and gorged upon her victims. 

And now,” said the Colonel, hear my arrangements, for 
there is little time to lose. This youngster, Edward Waver- 
ley, must continue to pass by his alias of Francis Stanley, my 
nephew; he shall set out to-morrow for the North, and the 
chariot shall take him the first two stages. Spontoon shall 
then attend him; and they shall ride post as far as Hunting- 
don; and the presence of Spontoon, well known on the road 
as my servant, will check all disposition to inquiry. At 
Huntingdon you will meet the real Frank Stanley. He is 
studying at Cambridge; hut a little while ago, doubtful if 
Emily’s health would permit me to go down to the North 
myself, I procured him a passport from the secretary of. state’s 
ofiice to go in my stead. As he went chiefiy to look after you, 
his journey is now unnecessary. He knows your story; you 
will dine together at Huntingdon; and perhaps your wise 
heads may hit upon some plan for removing or diminishing 
the danger of your farther progress northward. And now 
(taking out a morocco case), let me put you in funds for the 
campaign.” 

I am ashamed, my dear Colonel ” 

'^Nay,” said Colonel Talbot, ^^you should command my 
purse in any event; hut this money is your own. Your father, 
considering the chance of your being attainted, left me his 
trustee for your advantage. So that you are worth above 
£15,000, besides Brere-wood Lodge — a very independent per- 
son, I promise you. There are hills here for £200; any larger 
sum you may have, or credit abroad, as soon as your motions 
require it.” 

Travelling in the manner projected, Waverley met with 
Frank Stanley at Huntingdon. The two young men were 
acquainted in a minute. 

I can read my uncle’s riddle,” said Stanley; the cautious 


182 


WAVERLEY. 


old soldier did not care to hint to me that I might hand over 
to you this passport, which I have no occasion for; hut if it 
should afterwards come out as the rattle-pated trick of a 
young Cantab/ cela ne tire a rien.^ You are therefore to he 
Francis Stanley, with this passport.” This proposal appeared 
in effect to alleviate a great part of the difficulties which 
Edward must otherwise have encountered at every turn; and 
accordingly he scrupled not to avail himself of it, the more 
especially as he had discarded all political purposes from his 
present journey, and could not be accused of furthering 
machinations against the government while travelling under 
protection of the secretary’s passport. 


CHAPTEK XLV. 

DESOLATIOlf. 

Waverley riding post, as was the usual fashion of the 
period, without any adventure, reached the borders of Scot- 
land. Here he heard the tidings of the decisive battle of 
Culloden. It was no more than he had long expected, though 
the success at Falkirk had thrown a faint and setting gleam 
over the arms of the Chevalier. Yet it came upon him like 
a shock, by which he was for a time altogether unmanned. 
The generous, the courteous, the noble-minded adventurer 
was then a fugitive, with a price upon his head. Where, now, 
was the exalted and high-souled Fergus, if, indeed, he had 
survived the night at Clifton ? Where the pure-hearted and 
primitive Baron of Bradwardine ? Those who clung for sup- 
port to these fallen columns. Rose and Flora, where were 
they to be sought, and in what distress must not the loss of 
their natural protectors have involved them ? Of Flora, he 

1 a nickname for students at Cambridge University. 

2 that will result in nothing serious. 


DESOLATION. 


183 


tliouglit with the regard of a brother for a sister ; of Eose 
with a senstaion yet more deep and tender. It might be still 
his fate to supply the want of those guardians they had lost. 
Agitated by these thoughts he precipitated his journey. 

When he arrived in Edinburgh, where his inquiries must 
necessarily commence, he felt the full difficulty of his situa- 
tion. Many inhabitants of that city had seen and known him 
as Edward Waverley ; how, then, could he avail himself of 
a passport as Francis Stanley ? He resolved, therefore, to 
avoid all company, and to move northward as soon as possi- 
ble. He was, however, obliged to wait a day or two in ex- 
pectation of a letter from Colonel Talbot, and he was also to 
leave his own address, under his feigned character, at a place 
agreed upon. With this latter purpose he sallied out in the 
dusk through the well-known streets, carefully shunning ob- 
servation, but in vain : one of the first persons whom he met 
at once recognised him. It was Mrs. Flockhart, a good- 
humoured landlady, whom he had known in his previous stay 
in the city. 

Gude guide us, Mr. Waverley, is this you ? na, ye needna 
be feared for me. I wad betray nae gentleman in your cir- 
cumstances.^^ As there was no resisting her claim of ac- 
quaintance, Waverley acknowledged it with a good grace, as 
well as the danger of his own situation. ^^As it^s near the 
darkening, sir, wad ye just step in by to our house and tak a 
dish o’ tea ? and I am sure if ye like to sleep in the little 
room, I wad tak care ye are no disturbed, and naebody wad 
ken^ ye.” 

Waverley accepted her invitation, and engaged her lodg- 
ing for a night or two, satisfied he should be safer in the 
house of this simple creature than anywhere else. When he 
entered the parlour his heart swelled to see Fergus’s bonnet, 
with the white cockade, hanging beside the little mirror. 

Ay,” said Mrs. Flockhart, sighing, as she observed the 

»know. 


184 


WAVERLEY. 


direction of his eyes, the puir Colonel bought a new ane 
just the day before they marched, and I winua let them tak 
that ane doun, but just to brush it ilka day mysell ; and 
whiles I look at it till I just think I hear him cry to Galium 
to bring him his bonnet, as he used to do when he was gang- 
ing out. Oh, d’ ye ken, sir, when he is to sutler ? 

Suffer ! Good Heaven ! Why, where is he ?” 

Eh, Lord^s sake ! d^ ye no ken ? The word gangs the 
Colonel is to be tried, and to suffer wi^ them that were ta^en 
at Carlisle.'’^ 

'^And his sister 

^^Ay, that they ca^d the Lady Flora — weel, She^s away 
up to Carlisle to him, and lives wi^ some grand Papist lady 
thereabouts to be near him.'’^ 

And,^^ said Edward, ‘^the other young lady 
^^Whilk other ? I ken only of ae sister the Colonel had.'’^ 

I mean Miss Bradwardine,^^ said Edward. 

Ou, ay ; the laird^s daughter,” said his landlady. She 
was a very bonny lassie, puir thing, but far shyer than Lady 
Flora.” 

Where is she, for God^s sake ? ” 

Ou, wha kens where ony o^ them is now ? puir things, 
theyTe sair ta^en doun for their white cockades and their 
white roses ; but she gaed north to her father’s in Perth- 
shire, when the government troops cam back to Edinbro’.” 

Such conversation contained almost all the good-natured 
widow knew of the fate of her late lodgers and acquaintances ; 
but it was enough to determine Edward, at all hazards, to 
proceed instantly to Tully-Veolan, where he concluded he 
should see, or at least hear, something of Rose. He there- 
fore left a letter for Colonel Talbot at the place agreed upon, 
signed by his assumed name, and giving for his address the 
post-town next to the Baron’s residence. 

It was evening when he approached the village of Tully- 
Veolan, with feelings and sentiments — how different from 


DESOLATION. 


185 


those which attended his first entrance ! Then, life was so 
new to him that a dull or disagreeable day was one of the 
greatest misfortunes which his imagination anticipated, and 
it seemed to him that his time ought only to be consecrated 
to elegant or amusing study, and relieved by social or youth- 
ful frolic. Now, how changed ! how saddened, yet how 
elevated was his character, Avithin the course of a very few 
months ! 

As he approached the village he saw, with surprise and 
anxiety, that a party of soldiers were quartered near it, and, 
what was worse, that they seemed stationary there. This he 
conjectured from a feAV tents which he beheld glimmering 
upon what was called the Common Moor. To avoid the risk 
of being stopped and questioned in a place where he was so 
likely to be recognised, he made a large circuit, altogether 
avoiding the hamlet, and approaching the upper gate of the 
avenue by a by-path well known to him. A single glance 
announced that great changes had taken place. One half of 
the gate, entirely destroyed and split up for firewood, lay in 
piles, ready to be taken away; the other swung uselessly about 
upon its loosened hinges. The battlements above the gate 
were broken and thrown down, and the carved bears, which 
were said to have done sentineFs duty upon the top for cen- 
turies, now, hurled from their posts, lay among the rubbish. 

Upon entering the courtyard, Edward saw the fears real- 
ised which these circumstances had excited. The place had 
been sacked by the King’s troops, who, in wanton mischief, 
had even attempted to burn it ; and though the thickness of 
the walls had resisted the fire, unless to a partial extent, the 
stables and out-houses were totally consumed. The tower and 
pinnacles of the main building were scorched and blackened ; 
the pavement of the court broken and shattered; the doors 
torn down entirely, or hanging by a single hinge; the win- 
dows dashed in and demolished, and the court strewed with 
articles of furniture broken into fragments. With an aching 


186 


WAVEKLEY. 


heart Edward viewed this wreck of a mansion so respected. 
But his anxiety to learn the fate of the proprietors, and his 
fears as to what that fate might be, increased with every 
step. 

While, plunged in the sad reflections which the scene ex- 
cited, he was looking around for some one who might explain 
the fate of the inhabitants, he heard a voice from the interior 
of the building singing, in well-remembered accents, an old 
Scottish song : 

“ They came upon us in the night, 

And brake my bower and slew my knight ; 

My servant a’ for life did flee, 

And left us in extremitie. 

They slew my knight, to me sae dear ; 

They slew my knight, and drave his gear ; * 

The moon may set, the sun may rise. 

But a deadly sleep has closed his eyes.” 

Alas, thought Edward, ^Ms it thou ?” He then called, 
first low, and then louder, Davie — Davie Gellatley 

The poor simpleton showed himself from among the ruins of 
a sort of greenhouse, that once terminated what was called 
the Terrace-walk, but at first sight of a stranger retreated, 
as if in terror. Waverley, remembering his habits, began 
to whistle a tune to which he was partial, which Davie had 
expressed great pleasure in listening to, and had picked up 
from him by the ear. The melody had the same effect of 
producing recognition. Davie again stole from his lurking- 
place, but timidly, while Waverley, afraid of frightening 
him, stood making the most encouraging signals he could 
devise. After long hesitation, he at length approached 
Waverley with some confidence, stared him sadly in the face, 
and said, A^ dead and gane — a’ dead and gane.^^ 

1 The first three couplets are from an olfi ballad, called “ The Border Widow’s Lament.” 


DESOLATION. 


187 


Who are dead ? said Waverley, forgetting the incapac- 
ity of Davie to hold any connected discourse. 

Baron, and Bailie, and Saunders Saunderson, and Lady 
Rose that sang sae sweet — a’ dead and gane — dead and gane. 


‘‘ But follow, follow me, 

While glowworms light the lea. 

I’ll show ye where the dead should be — 

Each in his shroud. 

While winds pipe loud. 

And the red moon peeps dim through the cloud. 

Follow, follow me ; 

Brave should he be 

That treads by night the dead man’s lea.” 

With these words, chanted in a wild and earnest tone, he 
made a sign to Waverley to follow him, and walked rapidly 
towards the bottom of the garden, tracing the bank of the 
stream which, it may be remembered, was its eastern bound- 
ary. Edward, over whom an involuntary shuddering stole 
at the import of his words, followed him in some hope of 
an explanation. 

Davie, walking very fast, soon reached the extremity of 
the garden, and scrambled over the ruins of the wall that 
once had divided it from the wooded glen in which the old 
tower of Tully-Veolan was situated. He then jumped down 
into the bed of the stream, and, followed by Waverley, pro- 
ceeded at a great pace, climbing over some fragments of rock 
and turning with difficulty round others. They passed be- 
neath the ruins of the castle ; Waverley followed, keeping 
up with his guide with difficulty, for the twilight began to 
fall. Following the descent of the stream a little lower, he 
totally lost him, but a twinkling light which he now discov- 
ered among the tangled copse-wood and bushes seemed a 
surer guide. He soon pursued a very uncouth path ; and 
by its guidance at length reached the door of a wretched hut. 


188 


WAVERLEY. 


A fierce barking of dogs was at first heard, but stilled at his 
approach. A voice sounded from within, and he held it most 
prudent to listen before he advanced. 

^MVha hast thou brought here, thou unsonsy* villain, 
thou said an old woman, apparently in great indignation. 
He heard Davie Gellatley in answer whistle a part of the 
tune by which he had recalled himself to the simpleton's 
memory, and had now no hesitation to knock at the door. 
There was a dead silence instantly within, except the deep 
growling of the dogs ; and he next heard the mistress of the 
hut approach the door, not probably for the sake of undoing 
a latch, but of fastening a bolt. To prevent this Waverley 
lifted the latch himself. 

In front was an old wretched-looking woman, exclaiming, 

Wha comes into folk's houses in this gate, at this time o' 
the night ? " On one side, two grim and half-starved deer 
greyhounds laid aside their ferocity at his appearance, and 
seemed to recognise him. On the other side, half concealed 
by the open door, yet apparently seeking that concealment 
reluctantly, with a cocked pistol in his right hand and his 
left in the act of drawing another from his belt, stood a tall, 
bony, gaunt figure in the remnants of a faded uniform and 
a beard of three weeks' growth. It was the Baron of Brad- 
wardine. It is unnecessary to add, that he threw aside hia 
weapon and greeted Waverley with a hearty embrace. 


CHAPTER XLVI. 

COMPARING OF NOTES — MORE EXPLANATIONS. 

The Baron's story was short, when divested of the adages 
and commonplaces, Latin, English, and Scotch, with which 
his erudition garnished it. He insisted much upon his grief 

* Mischievous. 


COMPARING OF NOTES— MORE EXPLANATIONS. 189 


at the loss of Edward and of Gleniiaquoich, fought the fields 
of Falkirk and Culloden, and related how, after all was lost 
in the last battle, he had returned home, under the idea 
of more easily finding shelter among his own tenants and on 
his own estate than elsewhere. A party of soldiers had been 
sent to lay waste his property, for clemency was not the order 
of the day. Their proceedings, however, were checked by 
an order from the civil court. The estate, it was found, 
might not be forfeited to the crown to the prejudice of Mal- 
colm Bradwardine of Inch-Grabbit, the heir-male, whose 
claim could not be prejudiced by the Barones attainder, as 
deriving no right through him, and who, therefore, like 
other heirs of entail in the same situation, entered upon 
possession. But, unlike many in similar circumstances, the 
new laird speedily showed that he intended utterly to exclude 
his predecessor from all benefit or advantage in the estate, 
and that it was his purpose to avail himself of the old Barones 
evil fortune to the full extent. This was the more ungener- 
ous, as it was generally known that, from a romantic idea of 
not prejudicing this young many’s right as heir-male, the 
Baron had refrained from settling his estate on his daughter. 

AVaverley at length found an opportunity to interrupt the 
narrative by an inquiry after Miss Bradwardine. 

^^She^s well and safe, thank God ! at the Duchran,’^* an- 
swered the Baron. 

They then began to talk of their future prospects. The 
BaroiTs plan was very simple. It was, to escape to France, 
where, by the interest of his friends, he hoped to get some 
military employment, of which he still conceived himself ca- 
pable. He invited Waverley to go with him, a proposal in 
which he acquiesced, providing the interest of Colonel Talbot 
should fail in procuring his pardon. 

With the first dawn of the following day, old Janet was 

1 The name of a castle owned by a distant relative of the Baron, a noble with Whig 
principles. 


190 


WAVEELEY. 


scuttling about the house to wake the Baron, who usually 
slept sound and heavily. 

^MVill you walk down the glen wi^ me ?’’ he said to Wa- 
verley. 

They went out together, and followed a narrow and en- 
tangled foot-path, which the occasional passage of anglers or 
wood-cutters had traced by the side of the stream. 

believe,^^ said the old man, ^Mialf the people of the 
barony know that their poor auld laird is somewhere here- 
about ; for I see they do not suffer a single bairn to come here 
a bird-nesting ; a practice whilk, when I Avas in full posses- 
sion of my power as baron, I was unable totally to inhibit. 
Nay, I often find bits of things in my way, that the poor 
bodies, God help them ! leave there, because they think they 
may be useful to me. I hope they will get a wiser master, 
and as kind a one as I was."” 

A natural sigh closed the sentence ; but the quiet equa- 
nimity with which the Baron endured his misfortunes had 
something in it venerable and even sublime. There was 
no fruitless repining, no turbid melancholy ; he bore his lot, 
and the hardships which it involved, with a good-humoured, 
though serious composure, and used no violent language 
against the prevailing party. 

With Janet, Edward soon sought an interview. He had 
recognised her at first sight as the old woman who had nursed 
him during his sickness after his delivery from Gifted Gil- 
fillan. The hut also, though a little repaired and somewhat 
better furnished, was certainly the place of his confinement. 

The first question was. Who was the young lady that visited 
the hut during his illness ? Janet paused for a little ; and 
then observed, that to keep the secret now would neither do 
good nor ill to anybody. 

‘‘li was just a leddy that hasna her equal in the Avorld — 
Miss Rose Bradwardine ! 

Then Miss Rose was probably also the author of my 


COMPARING OF NOTES — MORE EXPLANATIONS. l9l 


deliverance/’ inferred Waverley, delighted at the confirma- 
tion of an idea which local circumstances had already induced 
him to entertain. 

I wot wel/ Mr. Wauverley, and that was she e’en; but 
sair, sair angry and affronted wad she hae been, puir thing, 
if she had thought ye had been ever to ken a word about the 
matter ; for she gar’d^ me speak aye Gaelic when ye was in 
hearing, to make ye trow we were in the Hielands. I can 
speak it weil eneugh, for my mother was a Hieland woman.” 

A few more questions now brought out the whole mystery 
respecting Waverley’s deliverance from the bondage in which 
he left Cairnvreckan. 

AYhen Waverley communicated to Fergus the letter he 
had received from Rose Bradwardine by Davie Gellatley, 
giving an account of Tully-Veolan being occupied by a small 
party of soldiers, that circumstance had struck upon the 
busy and active mind of the Chieftain. Eager to distress 
and narrow the posts of the enemy, desirous to prevent their 
establishing a garrison so near him, and willing also to oblige 
the Baron — for he often had the idea of marriage with Rose 
floating through his brain — he resolved to send some of his 
people to drive out the red-coats and to bring Rose to Glen- 
iiaquoich. But just as he had ordered Evan with a small 
party on this duty, the news of Cope’s having marched into 
the Highlands, to meet and disperse the forces of the 
Chevalier ere they came to a head, obliged him to join the 
standard with his whole forces. 

He sent to order Donald Bean to attend him ; but that 
cautious freebooter, who well understood the value of a 
separate command, instead of joining, sent various apologies 
which the pressure of the times compelled Fergus to admit 
as current, though not without the internal resolution of 
being revenged on him for his procrastination, time and place 
convenient. However, as he could not amend the matter. 


1 compelled. 


192 


WAVERLEY. 


he issued orders to Donald to descend into the Low Country, 
drive the soldiers from Tully-Veolan, and, paying all respect 
to the mansion of the Baron, to take his abode somewhere 
near it, for protection of his daughter and family, and to 
harass and drive away any of the armed volunteers or 
small parties of military which he might find moving about 
the vicinity. 

As this charge formed a sort of roving commission, which 
Donald proposed to interpret in the way most advantageous 
to himself, as he was relieved from the immediate terrors 
of Fergus, and as he had, from former secret services, some 
interest in the councils of the Chevalier, he resolved to make 
hay while the sun shone. He achieved without difficulty 
the task of driving the soldiers from Tully-Veolan ; but, 
although he did not venture to encroach upon the interior 
of the family, or to disturb Miss Eose, yet he set about to. 
raise contributions and exactions upon the tenantry, and 
otherwise to turn the war to his own advantage. Meanwhile 
he mounted the white cockade, and waited upon Rose with 
a pretext of great devotion for the service in which her father 
was engaged, and many apologies for the freedom he must 
necessarily use for the support of his people. It was at this 
moment that Eose learned, by open-mouthed fame, with all 
sorts of exaggeration, that Waverley had killed the smith at 
Cairnvreckan, in an attempt to arrest him ; had been cast 
into a dungeon by Major Melville of Cairnvreckan, and was 
to be executed by martial law within three days. In the 
agony which these tidings excited, she proposed to Donald 
Bean the rescue of the prisoner. It was the very sort of 
service which he was desirous to undertake. He had the 
art, however, pleading all the while duty and discipline, to 
hold off, until poor Eose, in the extremity of her distress, 
offered to bribe him to the enterprise with some valuable 
jewels which had been her mother’s. 

Donald Bean, who had served in France, knew, and per- 


COMPARING OF NOTES — MORE EXPLANATIONS. 193 


haps over-estimated, the value of these trinkets. But he 
also perceived Rosens apprehension of its being discovered 
that she had parted with her jewels for Waverley^’s liberation. 
Resolved this scruple should not part him and the treasure, 
he voluntarily offered to take an oath that he would never 
mention Miss Rosens share in the transaction ; and, foreseeing 
convenience in keeping the oath and no probable advantage 
in breaking it, he took the engagement — in order, as he told 
his lieutenant, to deal handsomely by the young lady — in the 
only mode and form which, by a mental paction with himself, 
he considered as binding ; he swore secrecy upon his drawn 
dirk. He was the more especially moved to this act of good 
faith by some attentions that Miss Bradwardine showed to his 
daughter Alice, which, while they gained the heart of the 
mountain damsel, highly gratified the pride of her father. 
Alice, who could now speak a little English, was very com- 
municative in return for Rosens kindness, readily confided to 
her the whole papers respecting the intrigue with Gardiner^s 
regiment, of which she was the depositary, and as readily 
undertook, at her instance, to restore them to Waverley with- 
out her father^s knowledge. 

The reader is aware that she took an opportunity of exe- 
cuting this purpose on the ev^ of Waverley’s leaving the glen. 

How Donald executed his enterprise the reader is aware. 
But the expulsion of the military from Tully- Veolan had given 
alarm, and while he was lying in wait for Gilfillan, a strong 
party, such as Donald did not care to face, was sent to drive 
back the insurgents in their turn, to encamp there, and to 
protect the country. This unwelcome news reached Donald 
Bean Lean as he was returning to Tully-Yeolan. Deter- 
mined, however, to obtain the guerdon of his labour, he 
resolved, since approach to Tully- Veolan was impossible, to 
deposit his prisoner in Janet’s cottage, a place the very exist- 
ence of which could hardly have been suspected even by 
those who had long lived in the vicinity, unless they had been 
13 


194 


WAVERLEY. 


guided thither, and which was utterly unknown to Waverley 
himself. This effected, he claimed and received his reward. 
Waverley’s illness was an event which deranged all their cal- 
culations. Donald was obliged to leave the neighbourhood 
with his people, and to seek more free course for his advent- 
ures elsewhere. At Eose's earnest entreaty, he left an old 
man, a herbalist, who was supposed to understand a little of 
medicine, to attend Waverley during his illness. 

In the mean while, new and fearful doubts started in Kose^s 
mind. They were suggested by old Janet, who insisted that, 
a reward having been offered for the apprehension of Wa- 
verley, and his own personal effects being so valuable, there 
was no saying to what breach of faith Donald might he 
tempted. In an agony of grief and terror, Kose took the 
daring resolution of explaining to the Prince himself the 
danger in which Mr. Waverley stood, judging that, both as a 
politician and a man of honour and humanity, Charles Ed- 
ward would interest himself to prevent his falling into the 
hands of the opposite party. This letter she at first thought 
of sending anonymously, but naturally feared it would not in 
that case be credited. She therefore subscribed her name, 
though with reluctance and terror, and consigned it in charge 
to a young man who, at leaving his farm to join the Cheva- 
lier^s army, made it his petition to her to have some sort of 
credentials to the adventurer, from whom he hoped to obtain 
a commission. 

The letter reached Charles Edward on his descent to the 
Lowlands, and, aware of the political importance of having 
it supposed that he was in correspondence with the English 
Jacobites, he caused the most positive orders to be trans- 
mitted to Donald Bean Lean to transmit Waverley, safe and 
uninjured, in person or effects, to the governor of Doune 
Castle. The freebooter durst not disobey, for the army of 
the Prince was now so near him that punishment might have 
followed ; besides, he was a politician as well as a robber, and 


COMPARING OF NOTES — MORE EXPLANATIONS. 195 


was unwilling to cancel tlie interest created through former 
secret services by being refractory on this occasion. He 
therefore made a virtue of necessity, and transmitted orders 
to his lieutenant to convey Edward to Doune, which was 
safely accomplished in the mode mentioned in a former chap- 
ter. The governor of Doune was directed to send him to 
Edinburgh as a prisoner, because the Prince was apprehensive 
that Waverley, if set at liberty, might have resumed his pur- 
pose of returning to England, without affording him an op- 
portunity of a personal interview. 

This, indeed, Charles Edward considered as a lady^s secret ; 
for although Eose^s letter was couched in the most cautious 
and general .terms, and professed to be written merely from 
motives of humanity and zeal for the Princess service, yet 
she expressed so anxious a wish that she should not be known 
to have interfered, that the Chevalier was induced to suspect 
the deep interest which she took in Waverley^s safety. This 
conjecture, which was well founded, led, however, to false 
inferences. For the emotion which Edward displayed on 
approaching Flora and Eose at the ball of Holyrood was 
placed by the Chevalier to the account of the latter ; and he 
concluded that the Barones views about the settlement of his 
property, or some such obstacle, thwarted their mutual incli- 
nations. Common fame, it is true, frequently gave Waverley 
to Miss Mac-Ivor ; but the Prince knew that common fame 
is very prodigal in such gifts ; and, watching attentively the 
behaviour of the ladies towards Waverley, he had no doubt 
that the young Englishman had no interest with Flora, and 
was beloved by Eose BradAvardine. Desirous to bind Waver- 
ley to his service, and wishing also to do a kind and friendly 
action, the Prince next assailed the Baron on the subject 
of settling his estate upon his daughter. Mr. Bradwardine 
acquiesced ; but the consequence Avas that Fergus was imme- 
diately induced to prefer his double suit for a wife and an 
earldom, which the Prince rejected in the manner Ave have 


196 


WAVERLEY. 


seen. The Chevalier, constantly engaged in his own multi- 
plied affairs, had not hitherto sought any explanation with 
Waverley, though often meaning to do so. But after Ferguses 
declaration he saw the necessity of appearing neutral between 
the rivals, devoutly hoping that the matter, which now 
seemed fraught with the seeds of strife, might be permitted 
to lie over till the termination of the expedition. Wlien, on 
the march to Derby, Fergus, being questioned concerning 
his quarrel with Waverley, alleged as the cause that Edward 
was desirous of retracting the suit he had made to his sister, 
the Chevalier plainly told him that he had himself observed 
Miss Mac-IvoFs behaviour to Waverley, and that he’ was con- 
vinced Fergus was under the influence of a mistake in judg- 
ing of Waverley^’s conduct, who, he had every reason to be- 
lieve, was engaged to Miss Bradwardine. 

. When Janet had once flnished the leading facts of this 
narrative, Waverley was easily enabled to apply the clue 
which they afforded to other mazes of the labyrinth in which 
he had been engaged. To Eose Bradwardine, then, he owed 
the life which he now thought he could willingly have laid 
down to serve her. A little reflection convinced him, how- 
ever, that to live for her sake was more convenient and agree- 
able. His mind occupied with projects of future happiness, 
Edward sought Little Veolan, the habitation of Mr. Duncan 
Macwheeble. 


CHAPTER XLVII. 

Now is Cupid a child of conscience — he makes restitution. 

Shakspeare. 

Mr. Duncan Macwheeble, no longer Commissary or 
Bailie, though still enjoying the empty name of the latter 
dignity, had escaped proscription by an early secession from 
the insurgent party and by his insignificance. 


WAVERLEY. 


197 


Edward found him in his office, immersed among papers 
and accounts. Before him was a large bicker' of oatmeal 
porridge, and at the side thereof a horn spoon and a bottle of 
two-penny. Eagerly running bis eye over a voluminous law- 
paper, he from time to time shovelled an immense spoonful 
of these nutritive viands into his capacious mouth. A pot- 
bellied Dutch bottle of brandy which stood by intimated either 
that this honest limb of the law had taken his already, 

or that he meant to season his porridge with such digestive ; 
or perhaps both circumstances might reasonably be inferred. 
His night-cap and morning-gown had whilome been of tartan, 
but, equally cautious and frugal, the honest Bailie had got 
them dyed black, lest their original ill-omened colour might 
remind his visitors of his unlucky excursion to Derby. To 
sum up the picture, his face was daubed with snuff up to the 
eyes, and his fingers with ink up to the knuckles. He looked 
dubiously at Waverley as he approached the little green rail 
which fenced his desk and stool from the approach of the 
vulgar. Nothing could give the Bailie more annoyance than 
the idea of his acquaintance being claimed by any of the un- 
fortunate gentlemen who were now so much more likely to 
need assistance than to afford profit. But this was the rich 
young Englishman ; who knew what might be his situation ? 
He was the Barones friend too ; what was to be done ? 

With some difficulty Waverley explained to him that he 
should want his assistance, in the first place, to make his 
residence safe for the time, by writing to the officer at Tully- 
Veolan that Mr. Stanlejq an English gentleman nearly related 
to Colonel Talbot, was upon a visit of business at Mr. Mac- 
wheeble’s, and, knowing the state of the country, has sent his 
passport for Captain Foster^s inspection. This produced a 
polite answer from the officer, with an invitation to Mr. Stan- 
ley to dine with him, which was declined (as may easily be 
supposed) under pretence of business. 

» bowl. 


198 


WAVERLEY. 


Waverley^s next request was, that Mr. Macwheeble would 

despatch a man and horse to , the post-town at which 

Colonel Talbot was to address him, with directions to wait 
there until the post should bring a letter for Mr. Stanley, and 
then to forward it to Little Veolan with all speed. In a mo- 
ment the Bailie was in search of his apprentice, Jock Scriever, 
and in not much greater space of time Jock was on the back 
of the white pony. 

With much discourse the time passed until dinner, Mac- 
wheeble mean while promising to devise some mode of intro- 
ducing Edward at the Duchran, where Eose at present re- 
sided, without risk of danger or suspicion; which seemed no 
very easy task, since the laird was a very zealous friend to 
government. The landlord’s corkscrew was just introduced 
into the muzzle of a pint bottle of claret (cribbed possibly 
from the cellars of Tully- Veolan), when the sight of the grey 
pony passing the window at full trot induced Bailie, but with 
due precaution, to place it aside for the moment. Enter 
Jock Scriever with a packet for Mr. Stanley; it is Colonel 
Talbot’s seal, and Edward’s fingers tremble as he undoes it. 
Two official papers, folded, signed, and sealed in all formality, 
drop out. They were hastily picked up by the Bailie, who 
had a natural respect for everything resembling a deed, and, 
glancing slily on their titles, his eyes, or rather spectacles, are 
greeted with Protection by his Eoyal Highness to the per- 
son of Cosmo Comyne Bradwardine, Esq., of that ilk, com- 
monly called Baron of Bradwardine, forfeited for his acces- 
sion to the late rebellion.” The other proves to he a protec- 
tion of the same tenor in favour of Edward Waverley, Esq. 
Colonel Talbot’s letter was in these words: 

^^My Dear Edward: 

‘‘ I am just arrived here, and yet I have finished my busi- 
ness; it has cost me some trouble though, as you shall hear. 
I waited upon his Eoyal Highness immediately on my arrival^ 


WAVERLEY. 


199 


and found him in on very good humour for my purpose. 
Three or four Scotch gentlemen were just leaving his levee. 
After he had expressed himself to me very courteously; 

Would you think it/ he said, ^Talbot, here have been half 
a dozen of the most respectable gentlemen and best friends to 
.government north of the Forth, Major Melville of Cairn- 
vreckan, Eubrick of Duchran, and others, who have fairly 
wrung from me, by their downright importunity, a present 
protection and the promise of a future pardon for that stub- 
born old rebel whom they call Baron of Bradwardine. They 
•allege that his high personal character, and the clemency 
which he showed to such of our people as fell into the rebels’ 
hands, should weigh in his favour, especially as the loss of his 
estate is likely to be a severe enough punishment. Eubrick 
has undertaken to keep him at his own house till things are 
: settled in the country; but it’s a little hard to be forced in a 
manner to pardon such a mortal enemy to the House of 
Brunswick.’ This was no favourable moment for opening 
my business; however, I said I was rejoiced to learn that his 
Eoyal Highness was in the course of granting such requests, 
as it emboldened me to present one of the like nature in my 
own name. He was very angry; but I persisted; I mentioned 
the uniform support of our three votes in the house, touched 
modestly on services abroad, though valuable only in his Eoyal 
Highness’s having been pleased kindly to accept them, and 
founded pretty strongly on his own expressions of friendship 
and good-will. He was embarrassed, but obstinate. I hinted 
the policy of detaching, on all future occasions, the heir of 
such a fortune as your uncle’s from the machinations of the 
disaffected. But I made no impression. I mentioned the 
obligations which I lay under to Sir Everard and to you per- 
sonally, and claimed, as the sole reward of my services, that 
he would be pleased to afford me the means of evincing my 
gratitude. I perceived that he still meditated a refusal, and, 
taking my commission from my pocket, I said (as a last re- 
source) that, as his Eoyal Highness did not, under these 
pressing circumstances, think me worthy of a favour which he 
had not scrupled to grant to other gentlemen whose services 
I could hardly judge more important than my own, I must 
beg leave to deposit, with all humility, my commission in his 


200 


WAVERLEY. 


Royal Highness’s hands, and to retire from the service. He 
was not prepared for this; he told me to take np my commis- 
sion, said some handsome things of my services, and granted 
my request. You are therefore once more a free man, and 
I have promised for you that you will be a good boy in future, 
and remember what you owe to the lenity of government. 
Thus you see my prince can be as generous as yours. I do 
not pretend, indeed, that he confers a favour with all the 
foreign graces and compliments of your Chevalier errant 
but he has a plain English manner, and the evident reluc- 
tance with which he grants your request indicates the sacrifice 
which he makes of his own inclination to your wishes. My 
friend, the adjutant-general, has procured m-e a duplicate of 
the Baron’s protection (the original being in Major Melville’s 
possession), which I send to you, as I know that if you can 
find him you will have pleasure in being the first to communi- 
cate the joyful intelligence. He will of course repair to the 
Duchran without loss of time, there to ride quarantine ^ for 
a few weeks. As for you, I give you leave to escort him 
thither, and to stay a week there, as I understand a certain 
fair lady is in that quarter. And I have the pleasure to tell 
you that whatever progress you can make in her good graces 
will be highly agreeable to Sir Everard and Miss Rachel, who 
will never believe your views and prospects settled, and the 
three ermines passant in actual safety, until you present them 
with a Mrs. Edward Waverley. How, certain love-affairs of 
my own — a good many years since — interrupted some meas- 
ures which were then proposed in favour of the three ermines 
passant; so I am bound in honour to make them amends. 
Therefore make good use of your time, for, when your week 
is expired, it will be necessary that you go to London to plead 
your pardon in the law courts. 

Ever, dear Waverley, yours most truly, 

Philip Talbot.” 

2 i. e. continue in retirement. 


* wandering Chievalier. 


A SHOKT WOOING. 


201 


CHAPTEE XLVIII. 

A SHORT WOOING. 

When it was near sunset Waverley hastened to the hut 
where the Baron lodged. As he entered the cottage, poor old 
J anet, bent double with age and bleared with peat-smoke, was 
tottering about the house with a birch broom, muttering to 
herself as she endeavoured to make her hearth and floor a 
little clean for the reception of her expected guests. Waver- 
ley’s step made her start, look up, and fall a-trembling, so 
much had her nerves been on the rack for her patron^s safety. 
With difficulty Waverley made her comprehend that the Baron 
was now safe from personal danger; and when her mind had 
admitted that joyful news, it was equally hard to make her 
believe that he was not to enter again upon possession of his 
estate. It behoved to be,” she said, “ he wad get it back 
again; naebody wad be sae gripple ^ as to tak his gear after 
they had gi^en him a pardon; and for that Inch-Grabbit, I 
could whiles wish mysell a witch for his sake, if I werena 
feared the Enemy wad tak me at my word.” 

Waverley now took leave of Janet, and soon stood beneath 
the Baroffis Patmos.^ At a low whistle he observed the 
veteran peeping out to reconnoitre, like an old badger with his 
head out of his hole. Ye hae come rather early, my good 
■ lad,” said he, descending; question if the red-coats hae 
beat the tattoo yet, and we’re not safe till then.” 

Good news cannot be told too soon,” said Waverley; and 
with infinite joy communicated to him the happy tidings. 
The old man stood for a moment in silent devotion, then ex- 
claimed, Praise be to God! I shall see my bairn again.” 

And never, I hope, to part with her more,” said Waverley. 

* grasping. 

2 The allusion is to the lonely island in the Algean Sea, on which the apostle John is 
said to have spent his last years. 


202 


WAVERLEY. 


I trust in God not, unless it be to win the means of sup- 
porting her; for my things are but in a bruckle^ state; but 
what signifies warld’s gear? 

And if,” said Waverley modestly, there were a situation 
in life which would put Miss Bradwardine beyond the uncer- 
tainty of fortune, and in the rank to which she was born, 
would you object to it, my dear Baron? Because it would 
make one of your friends the happiest man in the world.” 

The Baron seemed collecting all his dignity to make a suit- 
able reply to what, at another time, he would have treated as 
the propounding of a treaty of alliance between the houses of 
Bradwardine and Waverley. But his efforts were in vain; 
the father was too mighty for the Baron; the pride of birth 
and rank were swept away; in the joyful surprise a slight 
convulsion passed rapidly over his features, as he gave way 
to the feelings of nature, threw his arms around Waverley’s 
neck, and sobbed out: ‘^^My son, my son! if I had been to 
search the world, I would have made my choice here.” Ed- 
ward returned the embrace with great sympathy of feeling, 
and for a little while they both kept silence. At length it 
was broken by Edward. But Miss Bradwardine? ” 

She had never a will but her old father’s; besides, you 
are a likely youth, of honest principles and high birth; no, 
she never had any other will than mine, and in my proudest 
days I could not have wished a mair eligible espousal for her 
than the nephew of my excellent old friend. Sir Everard.” 

The next day conducted the Baron and his young friend to 
the Duchran, where the former was expected, in consequence 
of the success of the nearly unanimous application of the 
Scottish friends of government in his favour. 

We shall not attempt to describe the meeting of the father 
and daughter, loving each other so affectionately, and sepa- 
rated under such perilous circumstances. Still less shall we 
attempt to analyse the deep blush of Kose at receiving the 
» iprittle, 


A SHORT WOOING. 


203 


compliments of Waverley, or stop to inquire whether she had 
any curiosity respecting the particular cause of his journey to 
Scotland at that period. \Ye shall not even trouble the reader 
with the humdrum details of a courtship Sixty Years since. 
It is enough to say that, under so strict a martinet as the 
Baron, all things were conducted in due form. He took upon 
himself, the morning after their arrival, the task of announc- 
ing the proposal of Waverley to Eose, which she heard with a 
proper degree of maiden timidity. Fame does, however, say 
that Waverley had the evening before found five minutes to 
apprise her of what was coming, while the rest of the com- 
pany were looking at three twisted serpents which form a 
jet d’eau ^ in the garden. 

My fair readers will judge for themselves; but, for my 
part, I cannot conceive how so important an affair could be 
communicated in so short a space of time; at least, it certainly 
took a full hour in the Baron’s mode of conveying it. 

Waverley was now considered as a received lover in all the 
forms. He was made, by dint of smirking and nodding on 
the part of the lady of the -house, to sit next Miss Bradwardine 
at dinner, to be Miss Bradwardine’s partner at cards. If he 
came into the room, she of the four Miss Eubricks who 
chanced to be next Eose was sure to recollect that her thimble 
or her scissors were at the other end of the room, in order to 
leave the seat nearest to Miss Bradwardine vacant for his 
occupation. And sometimes, if papa and mamma were not 
in the way to keep them on their good behaviour, the misses 
would titter a little. Alice Bean, the pretty maid of the 
cavern, who, after her father’s misfortune, as she called it, 
had attended Eose as fille-de-cJiamhre,^ smiled and smirked 
with the best of them. Eose and Edward, however, endured 
all these little vexatious circumstances as other folks have 
done before and since, and probably contrived to obtain some 
indemnification, since they are not supposed, on the whole, 
1 fountain. 3 1 , e, as her maid. 


204 


WAVERLEY. 


to have been particularly unhappy during Waverley’s six 
days^ stay at the Duchran. 

It was finally arranged that Edward should go to Waverley- 
Honour to make the necessary arrangements for his marriage, 
thence to London to take the proper measures for pleading his 
pardon, and return as soon as possible to claim the hand of 
his plighted bride. He also intended in his journey to visit 
Colonel Talbot; but, above all, it was his most important 
object to learn the fate of the unfortunate Chief of Glenna- 
quoich; to visit him at Carlisle, and to try whether anything 
could be done for procuring, if not a pardon, a commutation 
at least, or alleviation, of the punishment to which he was 
almost certain of being condemned; and, in case of the worst, 
to offer the miserable Flora an asylum with Kose, or other- 
wise to assist her views in any mode which might seem pos- 
sible. The fate of Fergus seemed hard to be averted. Ed- 
ward had already striven to interest his friend. Colonel Tal- 
bot, in his behalf; but had been given distinctly to understand 
by his reply that his credit in matters of that nature was to- 
tally exhausted. 


CHAPTEK XLIX. 

To-morrow ? Oh, that’s sudden ! — Spare him, spare him ! 

Shakspeare. 

Edward, attended by his former servant Alick Polwarth, 
who had re-entered his service at Edinburgh, reached Carlisle 
while the commission of Oyer and Terminer ^ on his unfor- 
tunate associates was yet sitting. He had pushed forward in 
haste, not, alas! with the most distant hope of saving Fergus, 
but to see him for the last time. Edward pressed into the 
court, which was extremely crowded. The verdict of Guilty 
was already pronounced. Edward just glanced at the bar 

1 A court of judges appointed to hear and determine through a jury cases of treason, 
felony, and misdemeanour. 


WAVERLEY. 


205 


during the momentous pause which ensued. There was no 
mistaking the stately form and noble features of Fergus Mac- 
Ivor, although his dress was squalid and his countenance 
tinged with the sickly yellow hue of long and close imprison- 
ment. By his side was Evan Maccombich. Edward felt sick 
and dizzy as he gazed on them; but he was recalled to him- 
self as the Clerk of Arraigns pronounced the solemn words: 

Fergus Mac-Ivor of Glennaquoich, otherwise called Vich 
Ian Vohr, and Evan Mac-Ivor, in the Dhu of Tarrascleugh, 
otherwise called Evan Dhu, otherwise called Evan Mac- 
combich, or Evan Dhu Maccombich — you, and each of you, 
stand attainted of high treason. What have you to say for 
yourselves why the Court should not pronounce judgment 
against you, that you die according to law? ” 

Fergus, as the presiding Judge was putting on the fatal cap 
of judgment, placed his own bonnet upon his head, regarded 
him with a steadfast and stern look, and replied in a firm 
voice: I cannot let this numerous audience suppose that to 
such an appeal I have no answer to make. But what I have 
to say you would not bear to hear, for my defence would be 
your condemnation. Proceed, then, in the name of God, to 
do what is permitted to you. Yesterday and the day before 
you have condemned loyal and honourable blood to be poured 
forth like water. Spare not mine. Were that of all my 
ancestors in my veins, I would have perilled it in this quarrel.^^ 
He resumed his seat and refused again to rise. 

Evan Maccombich looked at him with great earnestness, 
and, rising up, seemed anxious to speak; but the confusion of 
the court, and the perplexity arising from thinking in a 
language different from that in which he was to express him- 
self, kept him silent. There was a murmur of compassion 
among the spectators, from the idea that the poor fellow in- 
tended to plead the influence of his superior as an excuse for 
his crime. The Judge commanded silence, and encouraged 
Evan to proceed. 


206 


WAVERLEY. 


“ I was only ganging to say, my lord/’ said Evan, in what 
he meant to be an insinuating manner, that if your excellent 
honour and the honourable Court would let Vich Ian Vohr go 
free just this once, and let him gae to France, and no to 
trouble King George’s government again, that ony six o’ the 
very best of his clan will be willing to be justified in his 
stead; and if you’ll just let me gae down to Glennaquoich, I’ll 
fetch them up to ye mysell, to head ^ or hang, and you may 
begin wi’ me the very first man.” 

Notwithstanding the solemnity of the occasion, a sort of 
laugh was heard in the court at the extraordinary nature of 
the proposal. The Judge checked this indecency, and Evan, 
looking sternly around, when the murmur abated, If the 
Saxon gentlemen are laughing,” he said, because a poor 
man, such as me, thinks my life or the life of six of my 
degree, is worth that of Vich Ian Vohr, it’s like enough they 
may he very right; hut if they laugh because they think I 
would not keep my word and come back to redeem him, I can 
tell them they ken neither the heart of a Hielandman nor the 
honour of a gentleman.” 

There was no farther inclination to laugh among the audi- 
ence, and a dead silence ensued. 

The Judge then pronounced upon both prisoners the sen- 
tence of the law of high treason, with all its horrible accom- 
paniments. The execution was appointed for the ensuing 
day. ^^For you, Fergus Mac-Ivor,” continued the Judge, I 
can hold out no hope of mercy. You must prepare against 
to-morrow for your last sufferings here, and your great audit 
hereafter.” 

I desire nothing else, my lord,” answered Fergus, in the 
same manly and firm tone. 

^^Eemove the prisoners,” said the Judge. 

Almost stupefied with his feelings, Edward found that the 
rush of the crowd had conveyed him out into the street ere 


1 to be beheaded. 


WAVEELEY. 


207 


he knew what he was doing. His immediate wish was to see 
and speak with Fergus once more. He applied at the Castle 
where his unfortunate friend was confined, but was refused 
admittance. 

^^And where was Miss Mac-Ivor?” They gave him the 
direction. It was the house of a respectable Catholic family 
near Carlisle. 

Eepulsed from the gate of the Castle, and not venturing to 
make application to the High Sheriff or Judges in his own 
unpopular name, he had recourse to the solicitor who came 
down in Fergus’s behalf. This gentleman told him that it 
was thought the public mind was in danger of being de- 
bauched by the account of the last moments of these persons, 
as given by the friends of the Pretender; that there had been 
a resolution, therefore, to exclude all such persons as had not 
the plea of near kindred for attending upon them. Yet he 
promised to get him an order for admittance to the prisoner 
the next morning, before his irons were knocked off for 
execution. 

With a faltering voice he requested the solicitor to find 
means to warn Fergus of his intended visit, should he obtain 
permission to make it. He then turned away from him, and, 
returning to the inn, wrote a scarcely intelligible note to Flora 
Mac-Ivor, intimating his purpose to wait upon her that even- 
ing. The messenger brought back a letter in Flora’s beauti- 
ful Italian hand, which seemed scarce to tremble even under 
this load of misery. Miss Flora Mac-Ivor,” the letter bore, 

could not refuse to see the dearest friend of her dear 
brother, even in her present circumstances of unparalleled 
distress.” 

When Edward reached Miss Mac-Ivor’s present place of 
abode he was instantly admitted. In a large and gloomy 
tapestried apartment Flora was seated by a latticed window, 
sewing what seemed to be a garment of white flannel. At a 
little distance sat an elderly woman, apparently a foreign.er. 


208 


WAVERLEY. 


and of a religions order. She was reading in a book of Catho- 
lic devotion, bnt when Waverley entered laid it on the table 
and left the room. Flora rose to receive him, and stretched 
ont her hand, hut neither ventured to attempt speech. Her 
tine complexion was totally gone; her person considerably 
emaciated; and her face and hands as white as the purest 
statuary marble, forming a strong contrast with her sable 
dress and jet-black hair. The first words she uttered were. 
Have you seen him ? ” 

Alas, no,” answered Waverley, I have been refused 
admittance.” 

It accords with the rest,” she said; hut we must submit. 
Shall you obtain leave, do you suppose ? ” 

For — for — to-morrow,” said Waverley; but muttering the 
last word so faintly that it was almost unintelligible. 

‘^^Do you remember,” she said, looking up with a ghastly 
smile, you once found me making Fergus’s bride-favours, 
and now I am sewing his bridal garment. Our friends here,” 
she continued, with suppressed emotion, are to give hal- 
lowed earth in their chapel to the bloody relics of the last 
Vich Ian Yohr. But they will not all rest together; no — his 
head! — I shall not have the last miserable consolation of kiss- 
ing the cold lips of my dear, dear Fergus! ” 

The unfortunate Flora here, after one or two hysterical 
sobs, fainted in her chair. The lady, who had been attend- 
ing in the ante-room, now entered hastily, and begged Edward 
to leave the room, but not the house. 

When he was recalled, after the space of nearly half an 
hour, he found that, by a strong effort. Miss Mac-Ivor had 
greatly composed herself. It was then he ventured to urge 
Miss Bradwardine’s claim to be considered as an adopted 
sister, and empowered to assist her plans for the future. 

I have had a letter from my dear Eose,” she replied, to 
the same purpose. Sorrow is selfish and engrossing, or I 
would have written to express that, even in my own despair. 


THE EXECUTION, 


209 


I felt a gleam of pleasure at learning her happy prospects, and 
at hearing that the good old Baron has escaped the general 
wreck. Give this to my dearest Rose; it is her poor Flora’s 
only ornament of value, and was the gift of a princess.” She 
put into his hands a case containing the chain of diamonds 
with which she used to decorate her hair. To me it is in 
future useless. The kindness of my friends has secured me 
a retreat in a convent in Paris. To-morrow — if indeed I can 
survive to-morrow — I set forward on my journey with this 
venerable sister. And now, Mr. Waverley, adieu! May you 
be as happy with Rose as your amiable dispositions deserve; 
and think sometimes on the friends you have lost. Do not 
attempt to see me again; it would be mistaken kindness.” 

She gave him her hand, on which Edward shed a torrent of 
tears, and with a faltering step withdrew from the apartment, 
and returned to the town of Carlisle. 


CHAPTER L. 

THE EXECUTION. 

Aftek a sleepless night, the first dawn of morning found 
Waverley on the esplanade in front of the old Gothic gate of 
Carlisle Castle. But he paced it long in every direction be- 
fore the hour when, according to the rules of the garrison, the 
gates were opened and the drawbridge lowered. He produced 
his order to the sergeant of the guard and was admitted. 

The place of Fergus’s • confinement was a gloomy and 
vaulted apartment in the central part of the Castle; a huge 
old tower, supposed to be of great antiquity, and surrounded 
by outworks, seemingly of Henry VIII.’s time, or somewhat 
later. The grating of the large old-fashioned bars and bolts, 
withdrawn for the purpose of admitting Edward, was an- 
14 


210 


WAVEKLEY. 


swered by the clash of chains, as the unfortunate Chieftain, 
strongly and heavily fettered, shuffled along the stone floor of 
his prison to fling himself into his friend’s arms. 

“ My dear Edward,” he said, in a firm and even cheerful 
voice, this is truly kind. I heard of your approaching hap- 
piness with the highest pleasure. And how does Eose? and 
how is our old whimsical friend the Baron? Well, I trust, 
since I see you at freedom. And how will you settle prece- 
dence between the three ermines passant and the bear? ” 

How, or how, my dear Fergus, can you talk of such things 
at such a moment! ” 

Why, we have entered Carlisle with happier auspices, to 
be sure; on the 16th of November last, for example, when we 
marched in side by side, and hoisted the white flag on these 
ancient towers. But I am no boy, to sit down and weep be- 
cause the luck has gone against me. I knew the stake which 
I risked; we played the game boldly and the forfeit shall be 
paid manfully. And now, since my time is short, let me 
come to the questions that interest me most — the Prince? has 
he escaped the bloodhounds? ” 

He has, and is in safety.” 

Praised be God for that! Tell me the particulars of his 
escape.” 

Waverley communicated that remarkable history, so far as 
it had then transpired, to which Fergus listened with deep in- 
terest. He then asked after their friends; and made many 
minute inquiries concerning the fate of his own clansmen. 
They had suffered less than other tribes who had been en- 
gaged in the affair; for, having in a great measure dispersed 
and returned home after the captivity of their Chieftain, 
according to the universal custom of the Highlanders, they 
were not in arms when the insurrection was finally suppressed, 
and consequently were treated with less rigour. This Fergus 
heard with great satisfaction. 

You are rich,” he said, “ Waverley, and you are generous. 


THE EXECUTION. 


211 


When you hear of these poor Mac-Ivors being distressed about 
their miserable possessions by some harsh overseer or agent 
of government, remember you have worn their tartan and 
are an adopted son of their race. The Baron, who knows our 
manners and lives near our country, will apprise you of the 
time and means to be their protector. AVill you promise this 
to the last Vich Ian Vohr? ’’ 

Edward, as may well be believed, pledged his word; which 
he afterwards so amply redeemed that his memory still lives 
in these glens by the name of the Friend of the Sons of Ivor. 

Would to Grod,^’ continued the Chieftain, I could be- 
queath to you my rights to the love and obedience of this 
primitive and brave race; or at least, as I have striven to 
do, persuade poor Evan to accept of his life upon their terms, 
and be to you what he has been to me, the kindest, the brav- 
est, the most devoted 

The tears which his own fate could not draw forth fell fast 
for that of his foster-brother. 

And now,^’ said Fergus, while we are upon the subject 
of clanship — what think you now of the prediction of the 
Bodach Glas?” Then, before Edward could answer, ^‘1 saw 
him again last night: he stood in the slip of moonshine which 
fell from that high and narrow window towards my bed. 
^ Why should I fear him?^ I thought; Ho-morrow, long ere 
this time, I shall be as immaterial as he.^ 

A tap at the door now announced the confessor, and Ed- 
ward retired while he administered to both prisoners the last 
rites of religion, in the mode which the Church of Eome pre- 
scribes. 

In about an hour he was re-admitted; soon after, a file of 
soldiers entered with a blacksmith, who struck the fetters 
from the legs of the prisoners. 

Shortly afterwards the drums of the garrison beat to arms. 

This is the last turn-out,” said Fergus, that I shall hear 
and obey. And now, my dear, dear Edward, ere we part let 


212 


WAVERLEY. 


Rs speak of Flora — a subject which awakes the tenderest feel- 
ing that yet thrills within me/^ 

^^We part not here!’’ said Waverley. 

Oh^ yes, we do; you must come no farther. Not that I 
fear what is to follow for myself/^ he said proudly. “ Nature 
has her tortures as well as art, and how happy should we think 
the man who escapes from the throes of a mortal and painful 
disorder in the space of a short half-hour? And this matter, 
spin it out as they will, cannot last longer. But what a 
dying man can suffer firmly may kill a living friend to look 
upon.^^ 

A bustle, and the sound of wheels and horses’ feet was 
now heard in the courtyard of the Castle. As I have told 
you why you must not follow me, and these sounds admonish 
me that my time flies fast, tell me how you found poor 
Flora.” 

Waverley, with a voice interrupted by suffocating sensa- 
tions, gave some account of the state of her mind. 

Poor Flora! ” answered the Chief, she could have borne 
her own sentence of death, but not mine. You, Waverley, 
will soon know the happiness of mutual affection in the mar- 
ried state — long, long may Rose and you enjoy it! — but you 
can never know the purity of feeling which combines two 
orphans like Flora and me, left alone as it were in the world, 
and being all in all to each other from our very infancy. But 
her strong sense of duty and predominant feeling of loyalty 
will give new nerve to her mind after the immediate and acute 
sensation of this parting has passed away. She will then 
think of Fergus as of the heroes of our race, upon whose deeds 
she loved to dwell.” 

Shall she not see you then? ” asked Waverley. She 
seemed to expect it.” 

^^A necessary deceit will spare her the last dreadful part- 
ing. I could not part with her without tears, and I cannot 
bear that these men should think they have power to extort 


THE EXECUTION. 


213 


them. She was made to believe she would see me at a later 
hour, and this letter, which my confessor will deliver, will 
apprise her that all is over.’^ 

An officer now appeared and intimated that the High Sher- 
iff and his attendants waited before the gate of the Castle to 
claim the bodies of Fergus Mac-Ivor and Evan Maccombich. 

I come,’’ said Fergus. Accordingly, supporting Edward by 
the arm and followed by Evan Dhu and the priest, he moved 
down the stairs to the tower, the soldiers bringing up the rear. 
The court was occupied by a squadron of dragoons and a bat- 
talion of infantry, drawn up in hollow square. Within their 
ranks was the sledge or hurdle on which the prisoners were to 
be drawn to the place of execution, about a mile distant from 
Carlisle. It was painted black, and drawn by a white horse. 
At one end of the vehicle sat the executioner, a horrid-looking 
fellow, as beseemed his trade, with the broad axe in his hand; 
at the other end, next the horse, was an empty seat for two 
persons. Through the deep and dark Gothic archway that 
opened on the drawbridge were seen on horseback the High 
Sheriff and his attendants, whom the etiquette betwixt the 
civil and military powers did not permit to come farther. 

This is well got up ^ for a closing scene,” said Fergus, smil- 
ing disdainfully as he gazed around upon the apparatus of 
terror. Evan Dhu exclaimed with some eagerness, after look- 
ing at the dragoons, These are the very chields that galloped 
off at Gladsmuir, before we could kill a dozen o’ them. They 
look bold enough now, however.” The priest entreated him 
to be silent. 

The sledge now approached, and Fergus, turning round, 
embraced Waverley, kissed him on each sida of the face, and 
stepped nimbly into his place. Evan sat down by his side. 
The priest was to follow in a carriage belonging to his patron, 
the Catholic gentleman at whose house Flora resided. As 
Fergus waved his hand to Edward the ranks closed around the 

J A phrase borrowed from the stage. 


214 


WAVERLEY. 


sledge, and the whole procession began to move forward. 
There was a momentary stop at the gateway, while the gov- 
ernor of the Castle and the High Sheriff went through a short 
ceremony, the military officer there delivering over the per- 
sons of the criminals to the civil power. God save King 
George ! ” said the High Sheriff. When the formality con- 
cluded, Fergus stood erect in the sledge, and, with a firm and 
steady voice, replied, God save King J antes ! These were 
the last words which Waverley heard him speak. 

The procession resumed its march, and the sledge vanished 
from beneath the portal, under which it had stopped for an 
instant. The dead march was then heard, and its melancholy 
sounds were mingled with those of a muffled peal tolled from 
the neighbouring cathedral. The sound of the military music 
died away as the procession moved on; the sullen clang of the 
bells was soon heard to sound alone. 

The last of the soldiers had now disappeared from under 
the vaulted archway through which they had been filing for 
several minutes; the courtyard was now totally empty, but 
Waverley still stood there as if stupefied, his eyes fixed upon 
the dark pass where he had so lately seen the last glimpse of 
his friend. At length a female servant of the governor’s, 
struck with compassion at the stupefied misery which his 
countenance expressed, asked him if he would not walk into 
her master’s house and sit down? She was obliged to repeat 
her question twice ere he comprehended her, but at length it 
recalled him to himself. Declining the courtesy by a hasty 
gesture, he pulled his hat over his eyes, and, leaving the 
Castle, walked as swiftly as he could through the empty 
streets till he regained his inn, then rushed into an apartment 
and bolted the door. 

In about an hour and a half, which seemed an age of unut- 
terable suspense, the sound of the drums and fifes performing 
a lively air, and the confused murmur of the crowd which now 
filled the streets, so lately deserted, apprised him that all was 


A WEDDING. 


215 


finished, and that the military and populace were returning 
from the dreadful scene. 

In the evening the priest made him a visit, and informed 
him that he did so by directions of his deceased friend, to 
assure him that Fergus Mac-Ivor had died as he lived, and 
remembered his friendship to the last. He added, he had 
also seen Flora, whose state of mind seemed more composed 
since all was over. With her and Sister Theresa the priest 
proposed next day to leave Carlisle for the nearest seaport 
from which they could embark for France. Waverley forced 
on this good man a ring of some value and a sum of money to 
be employed (as he thought might gratify Flora) in the ser- 
vices of the Catholic church for the memory of his friend. 

The next morning ere daylight he took leave of the town of 
Carlisle, promising to himself never again to enter its walls. 


CHAPTER LI. 

A WEDDING. 

The impression of horror with which AYaverley left Carlisle, 
on his way to AA^averley-Honour, softened by degrees into 
melancholy, a gradation which was accelerated by the painful 
yet soothing task of writing to Rose ; and, while he could not 
suppress his own feelings of the calamity, he endeavoured to 
place it in a light which might grieve her without shocking 
her imagination. 

At length, for the first time since leaving Edinburgh, he 
began to experience that pleasure which almost all feel who 
return to a verdant, populous, and highly cultivated country 
from scenes of waste desolation or of solitary and melancholy 
grandeur. But how were those feelings enhanced when he 
entered on the domain so long possessed by his forefathers ; 
recognised the old oaks of Waverley-Chace ^ thought with 


216 


WAVEKLEY. 


what delight he should introduce Eose to all his favourite 
haunts ; beheld at length the towers of the venerable hall 
arise above the woods which embowered it, and finally threw 
himself into the arms of the venerable relations to whom he 
owed so much duty and affection ! 

The happiness of their meeting was not tarnished by a 
single word of reproach. On the contrary, whatever pain Sir 
Everard and Miss Eachel had felt during Waverley^s perilous 
engagement with the young Chevalier, it assorted too well 
with the principles in which they had been brought up to 
incur reprobation, or even censure. 

The appearance of Waverley, embrowned by exercise and 
dignified by the habits of military discipline, had acquired 
an athletic and hardy character, which not only verified 
the ColoneTs narration, but surprised and delighted all the 
inhabitants of Waverley-Honour. They crowded to see, to 
hear him, and to sing his praises. 

All was now in a bustle to prepare for the nuptials of 
Edward, an event to which the good old Baronet and Miss 
Eachel looked forward as if to the renewal of their own youth. 
The match, as Colonel Talbot had intimated, had seemed to 
them in the highest degree eligible, having every recommen- 
dation but wealth, of which they themselves had more than 
enough. 

Yet, with all the urgency which Waverley could use, the 
delay occasioned by necessary preparations and by the mode 
of travelling at that period, rendered it considerably more 
than two months ere Waverley, having left England, alighted 
once more at the mansion of the Laird of Duchran to claim 
the hand of his plighted bride. 

The day of his marriage was fixed for the sixth after his 
arrival. The Baron of Brad ward ine, with whom bridals, 
christenings, and funerals were festivals of high and solemn 
import, felt a little hurt that, including the family of the 
Duchr^ ^nd all the immediate vicinity who had title to be 


A RESTOKED ESTATE. 


217 


present on such an occasion, there could not be above thirty 
persons collected. When he was married/’ he observed, 
‘‘'three hundred horse of gentlemen born, besides servants, and 
some score or two of Highland lairds who never got on horse- 
back, were present on the occasion.” 

The marriage took place on the appointed day. The Eev- 
erend Mr. Rnbrick, kinsman to the proprietor of the hospitable 
mansion where it was solemnised, and chaplain to the Baron 
of Bradwardine, had the satisfaction to unite their hands ; 
and Frank Stanley acted as bridesman, having joined Edward 
with that view soon after his arrival. Lady Emily and 
Colonel Talbot had proposed being present ; but Lady Emily’s 
health, when the day approached, was found inadequate to 
the journey. In amends it was arranged that Edward Wa- 
verley and his lady, who, with the Baron, proposed an imme- 
diate journey to Waverley-Honour, should in their way spend 
a few days at an estate which Colonel Talbot had been tempted 
to purchase in Scotland as a very great bargain, and at which 
he proposed to reside for some time. 


CHAPTEK LII. 

A RESTORED ESTATE. 

The nuptial party travelled in great style. There was a 
coach and six after the newest pattern, which Sir Everard 
had presented to his nephew, that dazzled with its splendour 
the eyes of one half of Scotland ; there was the family coach 
of Mr. Eubrick, — both these were crowded with ladies, and 
there were gentlemen on horseback, with their servants, to 
the number of a round score. Nevertheless, without having 
the fear of famine before his eyes, Bailie Macwheeble met 
them in the road to entreat that they would pass by his house 
at Little Veolan. The Baron stared, and said his son and 


218 


WAVERLEY. 


he would certainly ride by Little Veolan and pay their com- 
pliments to the Bailie, but could not think of bringing with 
them the ^^haill^'’^ coinitatus nuptialis, or matrimonial pro- 
cession. He added, that, as he understood that the barony 
had been sold by its unworthy possessor, he was glad to see 
his old friend Duncan had regained his situation under the 
new Dominus, or proprietor.” The Bailie ducked, bowed, 
and fidgeted, and then again insisted upon his invitation ; 
until the Baron, though rather piqued at the pertinacity 
of his instances, could not nevertheless refuse to consent 
without making evident sensations which he was anxious 
to conceal. 

He fell into a deep study as they approached the top of the 
avenue, and was only startled from it by observing that the 
battlements were replaced, the ruins cleared away, and (most 
wonderful of all) that the two great stone bears, those muti- 
lated Dagons ^ of his idolatry, had resumed their posts over 
the gateway. Now this new proprietor,” said he to Edward, 

has shown mair gusto, as the Italians call it, in the short 
time he has had this domain, than the hound Malcolm, 
though I bred him here myself, has acquired vita adhuc 
durante.^ And now I talk of hounds, is not yon Ban and 
Buscar who come scouping up the avenue with Davie Gel- 
latley ? ” 

vote we should go to meet them, sir,” said Waverley, 
^Hor I believe the present master of the house is Colonel 
Talbot; who will expect to see us. We hesitated to mention 
to you at first that he had purchased your ancient patri- 
monial property, and even yet, if you do not incline to visit 
him, we can pass on to the Bailie^s.” 

The Baron had occasion for all his magnanimity. How- 
ever he drew a long breath, took a long snuff, and observed, 
since they had brought him so far, he could not pass the 

’ whole. 2 The national idol-god of the Philistines of the Old Testament. 

3 “ all his previous life up tQ this daj.” 


A EESTORED ESTATE. 


219 


CoIoneFs gate, and lie would be happy to see the new master 
of his old tenants. He alighted accordingly, as did the other 
gentlemen and ladies ; he gave his arm to his daughter, and 
as they descended the avenue pointed out to her how speedily 
the Diva Pecunia ^ of the Southron — their tutelary deity, 
he might call her — had removed the marks of spoliation.'’^ 

In truth, not only had the felled trees been removed, but, 
their stumps being grubbed up and the earth round them 
levelled and sown with grass, every mark of devastation, un- 
less to an eye intimately acquainted with the spot, was al- 
ready totally obliterated. There was a similar reformation 
in the outward man of Davie Gellatley, who met them, every 
now and then stopping to admire the new suit which graced 
his person. He danced up with his usual ungainly frolics, 
first to the Baron and then to Rose, passing his hands over his 
clothes, crying, ‘‘Bra^ bra'’ Davie, '’^ and scarce able to sing a 
bar to an end of his thousand-and-one songs for the breath- 
less extravagance of his joy. The dogs also acknowledged 
their old master with a thousand gambols. Upon my con- 
science, Rose,'’^ ejaculated the Baron, ^^the gratitude o’ thae 
dumb brutes and of that puir innocent brings the tears into 
my auld een,* while that schellum ® Malcolm — but I’m obliged 
to Colonel Talbot for putting my hounds into such good con- 
dition, and likewise for puir Davie. But, Rose, my dear, 
we must not permit them to be a life-rent burden upon the 
estate.” 

As he spoke. Lady Emily, leaning upon the arm of her 
husband, met the party at the lower gate with a thousand 
welcomes. After the ceremony of introduction had been 
gone through, much abridged by the ease and excellent breed- 
ing of Lady Emily, she apologised for having used a little 
art to wile them back to a place which might awaken some 
painful reflections — But as it was to change masters, we 
were very desirous that the Baron ” 

» Goddess of Wealth. ’ eyes. ^ worthless fellow. 


220 


WAVERLEY. 


^‘Mr. Bradwardine, madam, if you please/^ said the old 
gentleman. 

^^Mr. Bradwardine, then, and Mr. Waverley should see 
what we have done towards restoring the mansion of your 
fathers to its former state. 

The Baron answered with a low bow : ^MVhile I acknowl- 
edge my obligation to you, sir, for the restoration of the 
badge of our family, I cannot but marvel that you have 
nowhere established your own crest, whilk is, I believe, a 
mastiff, anciently called a talbot.'’^ 

‘‘1 believe,^^ said the Colonel, smiling, our dogs are 
whelps of the same litter ; for my part, if crests were to dis- 
pute precedence, I should be apt to let them, as the proverb 
says, ^ fight dog, fight bear."”^ 

And yet, sir, I cannot but marvel that you. Colonel, whom 
I noticed to have so much of the amoi' 'patricB ^ when we met 
in Edinburg has even to villipend “ other countries, should 
have chosen to establish your Lares, or household gods 
procul a patrim jinihus,^ and in a manner to expatriate 
yourself.^^ 

Why, really, Baron, I do not see why, to keep the secret of 
these foolish boys, Waverley and Stanley, and of my wife, 
who is no wiser, one old soldier should continue to impose 
upon another. You must know, then, that I have so much 
of that same prejudice in favour of my native country, that 
the sum of money which I advanced to the seller of this ex- 
tensive barony has only purchased for me a box in shire, 

called Brere-wood Lodge, with about two hundred and fifty 
acres of land, the chief merit of which is, that it is within 
a very few miles of Waverley-Hononr.^^ 

And who, then, in the name of Heaven, has bought this 
property ? 

That, said the Colonel, it is this gentleman’s profes- 
sion to explain. 


1 love of country. 


2 abuse. 


3 “ at a great distance from your native land.’ 


A KESTORED ESTATE. 


221 


The Bailie, whom this reference regarded, and who had all 
this while shifted from one foot to another with great im- 
patience, ^ Mike a hen, as he afterwards said, upon a het 
griddle ; and chuckling, he might have added, like the said 
hen in all the glory of laying an egg, now pushed forward. 

That I can, that I can, your honour, drawing from his 
pocket a budget of papers, and untying the red tape with 
a hand trembling with eagerness. Here is the disposi- 
tion and assignation by Malcolm Bradwardine of Inch- 
Grabbit, regularly signed and tested in terms of the statute, 
whereby, for a certain sum of sterling money presently con- 
tented and paid to him, he has disponed, alienated, and 
conveyed the whole estate and barony of Bradwardine, 
Tully-Veolan, and others, with the fortalice* and manor- 
place 

For God^s sake, to the point, sir; I have all that by 
heart,^^ said the Colonel. 

— To Cosmo Comyne Bradwardine, Esq.,^^ pursued the 
Bailie, his heirs and assignees, simply and irredeemably, 
to be held either 

^‘Pray read short, sir.-’^ 

On the conscience of an honest man. Colonel, I read 
as short as is consistent with style — under the burden and 
reservation always ” 

^^Mr.* Macwheeble, this would outlast a Russian winter; 
give me leave. In short, Mr. Bradwardine, your family estate 
is your own once more in full property, and at your absolute 
disposal, but only burdened with the sum advanced to repur- 
chase it, which I understand is utterly disproportioned to its 
value.” 

An auld sang — an auld sang, if it please your honours,” 
cried the Bailie, rubbing his hands; ^Mook at the rental 
book.” 

— Which sum being advanced by Mr. Edward Waverley, 

* military defences. 


222 


WAVERLEY. 


chiefly from the price of his father’s property which I bought 
from him, is secured to his lady your daughter and her 
family by this marriage/’ 

It is difiicult to say whether the worthy Baron was most 
delighted with the restitution of his family property or with 
the delicacy and generosity that left him unfettered to pursue 
his purpose in disposing of it after his death, and which 
avoided as much as possible even the appearance of laying him 
under pecuniary obligation. 

Their private conversation ended, the Baron was now sum- 
moned to do the honours of Tully-Veolan to new guests. 
These were Major Melville of Cairnvreckan and the Eeverend 
Mr. Morton, followed by two or three others of the Baron’s 
acquaintances who had been made privy to his having again 
acquired the estate of his fathers. The shouts of the villagers 
were also heard beneath in the court yard ; for Saunders 
Sanderson, who had kept the secret for several days with 
laudable prudence, had unlocked his tongue upon beholding 
the arrival of the carriages. 

But, while Edward received Major Melville with politeness 
and the clergyman with the most affectionate and grateful 
kindness, his father-in-law looked a little awkward, as uncer- 
tain how he should answer the necessary claims of hospitality 
to his guests, and forward tlie festivity of his tenants. Lady 
Emily relieved him by intimating that, though she fnust be 
an indifferent representative of Mrs. Edward Waverley in 
many respects, she hoped the Baron would approve of the en- 
tertainment she had ordered in expectation of so many guests ; 
and that they would find such other accommodations provided 
as might in some degree support the ancient hospitality of 
Tully-Veolan. It is impossible to describe the pleasure which 
this assurance gave the Baron, who, with an air of gallantry 
half appertaining to the stiff Scottish laird and half to the 
officer in the French service, offered his arm to the fair 
speaker, and led the way, in something between a stride and 


A RESTORED ESTATE. 


223 


a minuet step, into the large dining-parlour, followed by all 
the rest of the good company. 

When the dinner was over, the Baron rose to offer a toast. 
A tear mingled with the wine which the Baron filled, as he 
proposed a cup of gratitude to Colonel Talbot, and ^^The 
Prosperity of the united Houses of Waverley-Honour and 
Bradwardine 1 ’^ 

It only remains for me to say that, as no wish was ever 
uttered with more affectionate sincerity, there are few which, 
allowing for the necessary mutability of human events, have 
been upon the whole more happily fulfilled. 




fEB 5 1902 

1 COPY DEL. TQ GAT. OlV. 
FEBt S f902 


FEB. 10 1902 


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STANDARD 
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WAVERLE Y 


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